Mixed decyl mercaptans compositions and methods of making same

ABSTRACT

Compositions comprising branched C 10  mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane, 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane, 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane, 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane, 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane, 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane, and combinations thereof.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/296,837 filed Oct. 18, 2016, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/981,469 filed Dec. 28, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,512,071, and entitled “Mixed Decyl Mercaptans Compositions and Methods of Making Same,” each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to compositions containing mixed decyl mercaptans and/or mixed decyl sulfides and methods of making same. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to compositions containing branched decyl mercaptans and/or branched C₂₀ sulfides, and methods of making same.

BACKGROUND

Mercaptans, which are also known as thiols, are organic compounds used in diverse applications. Some mercaptans can be used as precursors for agriculture chemicals or as natural gas additives. While processes for making mercaptans are available, preparing individual mercaptans can be costly due numerous purification steps required for the feedstock and/or mercaptan product. However, many applications may not require a single pure mercaptan compound, but could utilize mercaptan mixtures. Thus, there is a need to develop mercaptan compositions suitable for such applications, and methods of making same.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Disclosed herein is a composition comprising mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

Also disclosed herein is a composition comprising sulfides, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

Further disclosed herein is a composition comprising (A) at least about 25 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof, and (B) at least about 5 wt. % C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

Further disclosed herein is a composition comprising (A) from at least about 50 wt. % to at least about 90 wt. % mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof, and (B) from at least about 10 wt. % to at least about 30 wt. % sulfides, wherein at least 50 wt. % of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), and combinations thereof.

Further disclosed herein is a composition comprising (A) at least about 25 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof, (B) at least about 5 wt. % C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof, and one or more of the following components (C)-(I), (C) less than about 5 wt. % C₈ mercaptans, (D) less than about 15 wt. % C₁₂ mercaptans, (E) less than about 15 wt. % C₁₄ mercaptans, (F) less than about 5 wt. % C₁₆ mercaptans and/or C₁₈ mercaptans, (G) less than about 1 wt. % C₁₆₋₃₆ sulfides represented by the structure R³—S—R⁴, wherein R³ and R⁴ are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin selected from the group consisting of C₈ monoolefins, C₁₀ monoolefins, C₁₂ monoolefins, C₁₄ monoolefins, C₁₆ monoolefins, and C₁₈ monoolefins, wherein R³ and R⁴ are not both branched C₁₀ monoolefins, (H) less than about 10 wt. % unreacted C₈₋₁₈ monoolefins, and (I) less than about 10 wt. % non-olefin impurities selected from the group consisting of C₈₋₁₄ alkanes, cyclohexane, methylcyclopentane, methylcyclohexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, mesitylene, hexamethylbenzene, C₄₋₁₂ alcohols, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and 2-ethylhexyl-2-ethylhexanoate.

Further disclosed herein is a process comprising reacting hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition, wherein the branched C₁₀ monoolefins comprise 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the disclosed compositions and methods of making same, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 displays a reaction schematic for addition of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) to an olefin;

FIG. 2 displays a GC trace of a crude product from an UV initiated reaction after removal of residual H₂S;

FIG. 3 displays a GC trace of a reaction product from an UV initiated reaction after removal of lights;

FIG. 4 displays a GC trace of a crude product from an UV initiated reaction after removal of residual H₂S;

FIG. 5 displays a GC trace of a reaction product from an UV initiated reaction after removal of lights;

FIG. 6 displays a comparison of GC traces for a product obtained by UV initiation and a product obtained by acid catalysis. The upper chromatogram is the UV-initiated C₁₀ mercaptan product, and the lower chromatogram is the acid catalyzed C₁₀ mercaptan product;

FIG. 7 displays a comparison of GC traces for a C₁₀ mercaptan fraction isolated from a product obtained by UV initiation and a C₁₀ mercaptan fraction isolated from a product obtained by acid catalysis, and particularly, representative GC profiles of the purified C₁₀ mercaptan reaction product. The upper chromatogram is the acid catalyzed C₁₀ mercaptan product, and the lower chromatogram is the UV-initiated C₁₀ mercaptan product; and

FIG. 8 displays a GC trace of a crude product from a reaction catalyzed by a hydrodesulfurization catalyst after removal of residual H₂S.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

To define more clearly the terms used herein, the following definitions are provided. Unless otherwise indicated, the following definitions are applicable to this disclosure. If a term is used in this disclosure, but is not specifically defined herein, the definition from the IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 2^(nd) Ed (1997) can be applied, as long as that definition does not conflict with any other disclosure or definition applied herein, or render indefinite or non-enabled any claim to which that definition is applied. To the extent that any definition or usage provided by any document incorporated herein by reference conflicts with the definition or usage provided herein, the definition or usage provided herein controls.

Groups of elements of the Periodic Table are indicated using the numbering scheme indicated in the version of the Periodic Table of elements published in Chemical and Engineering News, 63(5), 27, 1985. In some instances, a group of elements can be indicated using a common name assigned to the group; for example, alkali metals for Group 1 elements, alkaline earth metals (or alkaline metals) for Group 2 elements, transition metals for Groups 3-12 elements, and halogens for Group 17 elements.

Regarding claim transitional terms or phrases, the transitional term “comprising”, which is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” “having,” or “characterized by,” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. The transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim. The transitional phrase “consisting of” limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. The term “consisting essentially of” occupies a middle ground between closed terms like “consisting of” and fully open terms like “comprising.” Absent an indication to the contrary, when describing a compound or composition, “consisting essentially of” is not to be construed as “comprising,” but is intended to describe the recited component that includes materials which do not significantly alter the composition or method to which the term is applied. For example, a feedstock consisting essentially of a material A can include impurities typically present in a commercially produced or commercially available sample of the recited compound or composition. When a claim includes different features and/or feature classes (for example, a method step, feedstock features, and/or product features, among other possibilities), the transitional terms comprising, consisting essentially of, and consisting of apply only to the feature class to which is utilized and it is possible to have different transitional terms or phrases utilized with different features within a claim. For example, a method can comprise several recited steps (and other non-recited steps), but utilize a catalyst system preparation consisting of specific steps, or alternatively, consisting essentially of specific steps, but utilize a catalyst system comprising recited components and other non-recited components.

While compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising” (or other broad term) various components and/or steps, the compositions and methods can also be described using narrower terms, such as “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and/or steps.

The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended, unless specifically indicated otherwise, to include plural alternatives, e.g., at least one.

For any particular compound disclosed herein, the general structure or name presented is also intended to encompass all structural isomers, conformational isomers, and stereoisomers that can arise from a particular set of substituents, unless indicated otherwise. Thus, a general reference to a compound includes all structural isomers, unless explicitly indicated otherwise; e.g., a general reference to pentane includes n-pentane, 2-methyl-butane, and 2,2-dimethylpropane, while a general reference to a butyl group includes an n-butyl group, a sec-butyl group, an iso-butyl group, and a tert-butyl group. Additionally, the reference to a general structure or name encompasses all enantiomers, diastereomers, and other optical isomers, whether in enantiomeric or racemic forms, as well as mixtures of stereoisomers, as the context permits or requires. For any particular formula or name that is presented, any general formula or name presented also encompasses all conformational isomers, regioisomers, and stereoisomers that can arise from a particular set of substituents.

A chemical “group” is described according to how that group is formally derived from a reference or “parent” compound, for example, by the number of hydrogen atoms formally removed from the parent compound to generate the group, even if that group is not literally synthesized in this manner. By way of example, an “alkyl group” can formally be derived by removing one hydrogen atom from an alkane, while an “alkylene group” can formally be derived by removing two hydrogen atoms from an alkane. Moreover, a more general term can be used to encompass a variety of groups that formally are derived by removing any number (“one or more”) of hydrogen atoms from a parent compound, which in this example can be described as an “alkane group,” and which encompasses an “alkyl group,” an “alkylene group,” and materials having three or more hydrogens atoms, as necessary for the situation, removed from the alkane. Throughout, the disclosure of a substituent, ligand, or other chemical moiety that can constitute a particular “group” implies that the well-known rules of chemical structure and bonding are followed when that group is employed as described. When describing a group as being “derived by,” “derived from,” “formed by,” or “formed from,” such terms are used in a formal sense and are not intended to reflect any specific synthetic methods or procedures, unless specified otherwise or the context requires otherwise.

The term “hydrocarbon” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a compound containing only carbon and hydrogen. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence of particular groups in the hydrocarbon (e.g., halogenated hydrocarbon indicates the presence of one or more halogen atoms replacing an equivalent number of hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbon). The term “hydrocarbyl group” is used herein in accordance with the definition specified by IUPAC: a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from a hydrocarbon. Non-limiting examples of hydrocarbyl groups include ethyl, phenyl, tolyl, propenyl, and the like. Similarly, a “hydrocarbylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from a hydrocarbon, either two hydrogen atoms from one carbon atom or one hydrogen atom from each of two different carbon atoms. Therefore, in accordance with the terminology used herein, a “hydrocarbon group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from a hydrocarbon. A “hydrocarbyl group,” “hydrocarbylene group,” and “hydrocarbon group” can be acyclic or cyclic groups, and/or can be linear or branched. A “hydrocarbyl group,” “hydrocarbylene group,” and “hydrocarbon group” can include rings, ring systems, aromatic rings, and aromatic ring systems, which contain only carbon and hydrogen. “Hydrocarbyl groups,” “hydrocarbylene groups,” and “hydrocarbon groups” include, by way of example, aryl, arylene, arene, alkyl, alkylene, alkane, cycloalkyl, cycloalkylene, cycloalkane, aralkyl, aralkylene, and aralkane groups, among other groups, as members.

The term “alkane” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a saturated hydrocarbon compound. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence of particular groups in the alkane (e.g., halogenated alkane indicates the presence of one or more halogen atoms replacing an equivalent number of hydrogen atoms in the alkane). The term “alkyl group” is used herein in accordance with the definition specified by IUPAC: a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from an alkane. Similarly, an “alkylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from an alkane (either two hydrogen atoms from one carbon atom or one hydrogen atom from two different carbon atoms). An “alkane group” is a general term that refers to a group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from an alkane. An “alkyl group,” “alkylene group,” and “alkane group” can be acyclic or cyclic groups, and/or can be linear or branched unless otherwise specified. Primary, secondary, and tertiary alkyl group are derived by removal of a hydrogen atom from a primary, secondary, and tertiary carbon atom, respectively, of an alkane. The n-alkyl group can be derived by removal of a hydrogen atom from a terminal carbon atom of a linear alkane.

An aliphatic compound is an acyclic or cyclic, saturated or unsaturated carbon compound, excluding aromatic compounds. Thus, an aliphatic compound is an acyclic or cyclic, saturated or unsaturated carbon compound, excluding aromatic compounds; that is, an aliphatic compound is a non-aromatic organic compound. An “aliphatic group” is a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from a carbon atom of an aliphatic compound. Thus, an aliphatic compound is an acyclic or cyclic, saturated or unsaturated carbon compound, excluding aromatic compounds. That is, an aliphatic compound is a non-aromatic organic compound. Aliphatic compounds and therefore aliphatic groups can contain organic functional group(s) and/or atom(s) other than carbon and hydrogen.

The term “substituted” when used to describe a compound or group, for example, when referring to a substituted analog of a particular compound or group, is intended to describe any non-hydrogen moiety that formally replaces a hydrogen in that group, and is intended to be non-limiting. A group or groups can also be referred to herein as “unsubstituted” or by equivalent terms, such as “non-substituted,” which refers to the original group in which a non-hydrogen moiety does not replace a hydrogen within that group. “Substituted” is intended to be non-limiting and include inorganic substituents or organic substituents.

The term “olefin” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to hydrocarbons that have at least one carbon-carbon double bond that is not part of an aromatic ring or an aromatic ring system. The term “olefin” includes aliphatic and aromatic, cyclic and acyclic, and/or linear and branched hydrocarbons having at least one carbon-carbon double bond that is not part of an aromatic ring or ring system unless specifically stated otherwise. Olefins having only one, only two, only three, etc., carbon-carbon double bonds can be identified by use of the term “mono,” “di,” “tri,” etc., within the name of the olefin. The olefins can be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon double bond(s).

The term “alkene” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a linear or branched aliphatic hydrocarbon olefin that has one or more carbon-carbon double bonds. Alkenes having only one, only two, only three, etc., such multiple bonds can be identified by use of the term “mono,” “di,” “tri,” etc., within the name. For example, alkamonoenes, alkadienes, and alkatrienes refer to linear or branched acyclic hydrocarbon olefins having only one carbon-carbon double bond (acyclic having a general formula of C_(n)H_(2n)), only two carbon-carbon double bonds (acyclic having a general formula of C_(n)H_(2n-2)), and only three carbon-carbon double bonds (acyclic having a general formula of C_(n)H_(2n-4)), respectively. Alkenes can be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon double bond(s). Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence or absence of particular groups within an alkene. For example, a haloalkene refers to an alkene having one or more hydrogen atoms replaced with a halogen atom.

The term “alpha olefin” as used in this specification and claims refers to an olefin that has a carbon-carbon double bond between the first and second carbon atoms of the longest contiguous chain of carbon atoms. The term “alpha olefin” includes linear and branched alpha olefins unless expressly stated otherwise. In the case of branched alpha olefins, a branch can be at the 2 position (a vinylidene) and/or the 3 position or higher with respect to the olefin double bond. The term “vinylidene” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to an alpha olefin having a branch at the 2 position with respect to the olefin double bond. By itself, the term “alpha olefin” does not indicate the presence or absence of other carbon-carbon double bonds unless explicitly indicated.

The term “normal alpha olefin” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a linear aliphatic mono-olefin having a carbon-carbon double bond between the first and second carbon atoms. It is noted that “normal alpha olefin” is not synonymous with “linear alpha olefin” as the term “linear alpha olefin” can include linear olefinic compounds having a double bond between the first and second carbon atoms.

The terms “lights,” “light fraction,” or “light compounds” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to compounds present in the reaction product with equal to or less than about 9 carbon atoms (C⁹⁻) per molecule. Nonlimiting examples of C⁹⁻ compounds that can be in the reaction product include C⁹⁻ monoolefins (e.g., unreacted C⁹⁻ monoolefins), C⁹⁻ mercaptans, C⁹⁻ alkanes, C⁹⁻ alcohols, cyclohexane, methylcyclopentane, methylcyclohexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, mesitylene, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and the like, or combinations thereof. Unless otherwise specifically indicated herein, the terms “lights,” “light fraction,” or “light compounds” whenever used in this specification and claims excludes hydrogen sulfide, as H₂S is typically substantially consumed during the preceding reaction and/or removed from the reaction product (as discussed in more detail herein) prior to further processing of the reaction product (e.g., distillation thereof). For example, H₂S can be removed from the reaction product via distillation, stripping, flashing, or other suitable means known to those of skill in the art without removing any substantial amounts of the “lights,” “light fraction,” or “light compounds” from the reaction product. Not wanting to be limited by theory, this definition of “lights,” “light fraction,” or “light compounds” includes any compounds with about nine or less carbon atoms present in the reaction product that can be detected, even in trace amounts. As is known to one of skill in the art, the light fraction can also contain trace amounts of lower carbon number sulfides.

The terms “intermediates” or “intermediate fraction” whenever used in this specification and claims typically refers to compounds with about ten to seventeen carbon atoms (C₁₀₋₁₇) per molecule. Nonlimiting examples of C₁₀₋₁₇ compounds include C₁₀ mercaptans (including both branched and non-branched C₁₀ mercaptans), C₁₂₋₁₇ mercaptan isomers, C₁₂-C₁₇ sulfides, and the like, or combinations thereof. Not wanting to be limited by theory, this definition of “intermediates” or “intermediate fraction” includes any compounds with about ten to seventeen carbon atoms present in the reaction product that can be detected, even in trace amounts. As is known to one skilled in the art, the intermediate fraction can also contain trace amounts of lower carbon number compounds, including sulfides. In some embodiments (e.g., in the Examples described herein), a product can be recovered from the intermediate fraction (e.g., a C₁₀ mercaptan fraction), and the remaining C₁₁ to C₁₇ compounds (e.g., C₁₂₋₁₆ mercaptans) can be referred to as the intermediate fraction.

The terms “heavies” or “heavy fraction” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to compounds with about eighteen or more carbon atoms (C₁₈₊) per molecule. Nonlimiting examples of C₁₈₊ products include C₁₈ sulfides, C₂₀ sulfides, C₂₄ sulfides, C₂₈ sulfides, C₃₂ sulfides, C₁₈ mercaptans, and the like, or combinations thereof. As is known to those of skill in the art, the heavy fraction can also contain trace amounts of lower carbon number compounds, including mercaptans and sulfides.

These light, intermediate, and heavy fractions can be referred to as “rough-cuts,” in that they contain a plurality of compounds spread across a range of carbon atoms, i.e., a plurality of compounds having a different number of carbon atoms (e.g., a rough cut comprising C₁₀, C₁₁, C₁₂, C₁₃, C₁₄, C₁₅, C₁₆, C₁₇, etc. compounds). These rough cuts are in contrast to one or more “fine-cuts” that contain a fewer number of compounds than the rough-cuts, for example, a C₁₀ fine cut (e.g., a C₁₀ mercaptan fraction) derived from or otherwise recovered separately from the rough cut. Accordingly, a rough cut can be comprised of a number of fine cuts, for example where a plurality of cuts are taken via distillation over a period of time and across a ramped temperature range, and referred to collectively as a rough cut or individually as fine cuts. Those of ordinary skill in the art can produce a fine-cut fraction from a rough-cut fraction, for example via further distillation (e.g., a C₁₀ splitter, a C₂₀ splitter, etc.) or other purification technique.

The terms “room temperature” or “ambient temperature” are used herein to describe any temperature from 15° C. to 35° C. wherein no external heat or cooling source is directly applied to the reaction vessel. Accordingly, the terms “room temperature” and “ambient temperature” encompass the individual temperatures and any and all ranges, subranges, and combinations of subranges of temperatures from 15° C. to 35° C. wherein no external heating or cooling source is directly applied to the reaction vessel. The term “atmospheric pressure” is used herein to describe an earth air pressure wherein no external pressure modifying means is utilized. Generally, unless practiced at extreme earth altitudes, “atmospheric pressure” is about 1 atmosphere (alternatively, about 14.7 psi or about 101 kPa).

Features within this disclosure that are provided as a minimum value can be alternatively stated as “at least” or “greater than or equal to” any recited minimum value for the feature disclosed herein. Features within this disclosure that are provided as a maximum value can be alternatively stated as “less than or equal to” or “below” any recited maximum value for the feature disclosed herein.

Within this disclosure, the normal rules of organic nomenclature will prevail. For instance, when referencing substituted compounds or groups, references to substitution patterns are taken to indicate that the indicated group(s) is (are) located at the indicated position and that all other non-indicated positions are hydrogen. For example, reference to a 4-substituted phenyl group indicates that there is a non-hydrogen substituent located at the 4 position and hydrogens located at the 2, 3, 5, and 6 positions. By way of another example, reference to a 3-substituted naphth-2-yl indicates that there is a non-hydrogen substituent located at the 3 position and hydrogens located at the 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 positions. References to compounds or groups having substitutions at positions in addition to the indicated position will be referenced using comprising or some other alternative language. For example, a reference to a phenyl group comprising a substituent at the 4 position refers to a phenyl group having a non-hydrogen substituent group at the 4 position and hydrogen or any non-hydrogen group at the 2, 3, 5, and 6 positions.

Use of the term “optionally” with respect to any element of a claim is intended to mean that the subject element is required, or alternatively, is not required. Both alternatives are intended to be within the scope of the claim.

Unless otherwise specified, any carbon-containing group for which the number of carbon atoms is not specified can have, according to proper chemical practice, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 carbon atoms, or any range or combination of ranges between these values. For example, unless otherwise specified, any carbon-containing group can have from 1 to 30 carbon atoms, from 1 to 25 carbon atoms, from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, from 1 to 15 carbon atoms, from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, or from 1 to 5 carbon atoms. Moreover, other identifiers or qualifying terms can be utilized to indicate the presence or absence of a particular substituent, a particular regiochemistry and/or stereochemistry, or the presence or absence of a branched underlying structure or backbone.

Processes and/or methods described herein utilize steps, features, and compounds which are independently described herein. The process and methods described herein may or may not utilize step identifiers (e.g., 1), 2), etc., a), b), etc., or i), ii), etc.), features (e.g., 1), 2), etc., a), b), etc., or i), ii), etc.), and/or compound identifiers (e.g., first, second, etc.). However, it should be noted that processes and/or methods described herein can have multiple steps, features (e.g., reagent ratios, formation conditions, among other considerations), and/or multiple compounds having the same general descriptor. Consequently, it should be noted that the processes and/or methods described herein can be modified to use an appropriate step or feature identifier (e.g., 1), 2), etc., a), b), etc., or i), ii), etc.) and/or compound identifier (e.g., first, second, etc.) regardless of step, feature, and/or compound identifier utilized in a particular aspect and/or embodiment described herein and that step or feature identifiers can be added and/or modified to indicate individual different steps/features/compounds utilized within the process and/or methods without detracting from the general disclosure.

Embodiments disclosed herein can provide the materials listed as suitable for satisfying a particular feature of the embodiment delimited by the term “or.” For example, a particular feature of the disclosed subject matter can be disclosed as follows: Feature X can be A, B, or C. It is also contemplated that for each feature the statement can also be phrased as a listing of alternatives such that the statement “Feature X is A, alternatively B, or alternatively C” is also an embodiment of the present disclosure whether or not the statement is explicitly recited.

The weight percent compositional aspects of the various compositions described herein (e.g., the weight percent of one or more compounds present in a composition) can be determined by gas chromatography (GC), gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, or any other suitable analytical method known to those of skill in the art. For example, unless otherwise indicated, the weight percent compositional aspects of the various compositions described herein (e.g., the weight percent of the various sulfur-containing compounds such as C₁₀ mercaptans and C₂₀ sulfides present in the compositions such as the crude, light fraction, intermediate fraction, heavy faction, etc.) can be determined using a gas chromatograph with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) detector based on the total GC peak areas (as described herein) and reported as gas chromatography (GC) area percent (GC area %), which is a common analytical technique for compositions comprising sulfur-containing compounds. While not wishing to be bound by this theory, it is believed that the amount in area % is very similar to the amount in weight percent (wt. %), and these respective amounts need not be exactly equivalent or interchangeable in order to be understood by a person of ordinary skill.

In an embodiment, a process of the present disclosure comprises reacting, in a reactor, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition (also referred to as a crude product); wherein the branched C₁₀ monoolefins comprise 5-methyl-1-nonene, 3-propyl-1-heptene, 4-ethyl-1-octene, 2-butyl-1-hexene, or combinations thereof; and wherein the crude composition comprises branched C₁₀ mercaptans and branched C₂₀ sulfides.

The crude composition can be further processed, for example via distillation, to yield one or more products (also referred to as distilled, purified, refined, finished, or final products) selected from the group consisting of mercaptan compositions (e.g., a composition comprising one or more branched C₁₀ mercaptans), sulfide compositions (e.g., a composition comprising one or more branched C₂₀ sulfides); and compositions having both mercaptans (e.g., branched C₁₀ mercaptans) and sulfides (e.g., branched C₂₀ sulfides), referred to as mercaptan/sulfide compositions.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan composition comprises branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane, 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane, 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane, 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane, 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane, 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane, and combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a sulfide composition comprises branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene, 3-propyl-1-heptene, 4-ethyl-1-octene, 2-butyl-1-hexene, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan/sulfide composition comprises (A) branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane, 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane, 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane, 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane, 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane, 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane, and combinations thereof and (B) branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene, 3-propyl-1-heptene, 4-ethyl-1-octene, 2-butyl-1-hexene, or combinations thereof.

The mercaptan compositions, sulfide compositions, and mercaptan/sulfide compositions can be salable or otherwise used for a variety of end uses such as mining ore collector compositions and chain transfer agents.

In an embodiment, the compositions disclosed herein can be prepared by a process comprising reacting, in a reactor, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude (reaction product) composition, wherein the branched C₁₀ monoolefins comprise 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

Any feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins of the type described herein can be used, for example a feedstock obtained from a commercial petroleum refining or petrochemical process. Such feedstocks can comprise other olefins in addition to the one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins of the type described herein, for example linear C₁₀ monoolefins as well as olefins having more or less than 10 carbon atoms. In an embodiment, the feedstock comprises one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins and is obtained from a 1-hexene production process effluent stream. In various embodiments, a feedstock obtained from a 1-hexene production process effluent stream can comprise C₁₀ monoolefins (e.g., branched and/or linear C₁₀ monoolefins) as well as olefins having more or less than 10 carbon atoms.

In an embodiment, the feedstock can comprise (a) at least about 76 mol %, alternatively at least about 78 mol %, alternatively at least about 80 mol %, or alternatively at least about 82 mol % C₁₀ monoolefins, and (b) at least about 1 mol %, alternatively at least about 2 mol %, alternatively at least about 3 mol %, or alternatively at least about 4 mol % C₁₄ monoolefins. In an embodiment, the feedstock can comprise (a) from about 76 mol % to about 92 mol %, alternatively from about 78 mol % to about 90 mol %, alternatively from about 80 mol % to about 88 mol %, or alternatively from about 82 mol % to about 86 mol % C₁₀ monoolefins; and (b) from about 1 mol % to about 12 mol %, alternatively from about 2 mol % to about 10 mol %, alternatively from about 3 mol % to about 8 mol %, or alternatively from about 4 mol % to about 7 mol % C₁₄ monoolefins. For purposes of the disclosure herein, a feedstock comprising (a) at least about 76 mol % C₁₀ monoolefins, and (b) at least about 1 mol % C₁₄ monoolefins can also be referred to as a “first feedstock.” In an embodiment, the first feedstock is obtained from a 1-hexene production process effluent stream, for example an effluent stream obtained from a 1-hexene production process of the type disclosed in co-pending International Patent Application PCT/US2015/40433, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In another embodiment, the feedstock can comprise at least about 95 mol %, alternatively at least about 96 mol %, alternatively at least about 97 mol %, alternatively at least about 98 mol %, or alternatively at least about 99 mol % C₁₀ monoolefins. For purposes of the disclosure herein, a feedstock comprising at least about 95 mol % C₁₀ monoolefins can also be referred to as a “second feedstock.” In an embodiment, the second feedstock can be produced by purifying the first feedstock, such as for example by distillation of an effluent stream obtained from a 1-hexene production process of the type disclosed in co-pending International Patent Application PCT/US2015/40433, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein (e.g., a first feedstock or a second feedstock) can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, 2-butyl-1-hexene, 3-propyl-1-heptene, 4-ethyl-1-octene, and 5-methyl-1-nonene. In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can comprise i) at least about 3 mol %, alternatively at least about 4 mol %, alternatively at least about 5 mol %, alternatively at least about 6 mol %, alternatively at least about 7 mol %, or alternatively at least about 8 mol % 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), ii) at least about 8 mol %, alternatively at least about 9 mol %, alternatively at least about 10 mol %, alternatively at least about 11 mol %, alternatively at least about 12 mol %, or alternatively at least about 13 mol % 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), iii) at least about 6 mol %, alternatively at least about 7 mol %, alternatively at least about 8 mol %, alternatively at least about 9 mol %, alternatively at least about 10 mol %, or alternatively at least about 11 mol % 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), and iv) at least about 20 mol %, alternatively at least about 22 mol %, alternatively at least about 24 mol %, alternatively at least about 26 mol %, alternatively at least about 28 mol %, or alternatively at least about 30 mol % 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I).

In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein (e.g., a first feedstock or a second feedstock) can have a molar ratio of 2-butyl-1-hexene to 5-methyl-1-nonene of at least about 2:1, alternatively at least about 2.4:1, alternatively at least about 2.6:1, or alternatively at least about 2.8:1. In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can have a molar ratio of 3-propyl-1-heptene to 5-methyl-1-nonene of at least about 1.2:1, alternatively at least about 1.4:1, alternatively at least about 1.6:1, or alternatively at least about 1.8:1. In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can have a molar ratio of 4-ethyl-1-octene to 5-methyl-1-nonene of at least about 1.6:1, alternatively at least about 1.7:1, alternatively at least about 1.9:1, or alternatively at least about 2.1:1. In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can have a molar ratio of 2-butyl-1-hexene to 5-methyl-1-nonene of at least about 2:1, alternatively at least about 2.4:1, alternatively at least about 2.6:1, or alternatively at least about 2.8:1; a molar ratio of 3-propyl-1-heptene to 5-methyl-1-nonene of at least about 1.2:1, alternatively at least about 1.4:1, alternatively at least about 1.6:1, or alternatively at least about 1.8:1; and a molar ratio of 4-ethyl-1-octene to 5-methyl-1-nonene of at least about 1.6:1, alternatively at least about 1.7:1, alternatively at least about 1.9:1, or alternatively at least about 2.1:1.

In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein (e.g., a first feedstock or a second feedstock) can comprise linear C₁₀ monoolefins. In such embodiment, the linear C₁₀ monoolefins can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, 1-decene, 4-decene, 5-decene, or combinations thereof; alternatively, 1-decene; alternatively, 4-decene and/or 5-decene; alternatively, 4-decene; or alternatively, 5-decene. In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can comprise less than or equal to about 26 mol %, alternatively less than or equal to about 24 mol %, alternatively less than or equal to about 22 mol %, alternatively less than or equal to about 20 mol %, or alternatively less than or equal to about 18 mol % linear C₁₀ monoolefins. In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can comprise from about 1 mol % to about 16 mol %, alternatively from about 2 mol % to about 15 mol %, alternatively from about 3 mol % to about 14 mol %, alternatively from about 4 mol % to about 13 mol %, or alternatively from about 6 mol % to about 12 mol % 4-decene and/or 5-decene. In some embodiments, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can comprise less than or equal to about 10 mol %, alternatively less than or equal to about 9 mol %, alternatively less than or equal to about 8 mol %, alternatively less than or equal to about 7 mol %, or alternatively less than or equal to about 6 mol % 1-decene. In other embodiments, the C₁₀ monoolefins of any feedstock described herein can comprise from about 0.5 mol % to about 9 mol %, alternatively from about 1 mol % to about 8 mol %, alternatively from about 1.5 mol % to about 7 mol %, or alternatively from about 2 mol % to about 6 mol %1-decene.

In an embodiment, the first feedstock disclosed herein can further comprise C⁹⁻ monoolefins, C₁₁₊ monoolefins, or combinations thereof; alternatively, C⁹⁻ monoolefins; or alternatively, C₁₁₊ monoolefins. In an embodiment, the C⁹⁻ monoolefins can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₇ monoolefin, a C₈ monoolefin, a C₉ monoolefin, or combinations thereof; alternatively, a C₇ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₈ monoolefin; or alternatively, a C₉ monoolefin. In some embodiments, the C⁹⁻ monoolefins can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₈ monoolefin. In an embodiment, the C₁₁₊ monoolefins can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₁₁ monoolefin, a C₁₂ monoolefin, a C₁₃ monoolefin, a C₁₄ monoolefin, a C₁₅ monoolefin, a C₁₆ monoolefin, a C₁₇ monoolefin, a C₁₈ monoolefin, or combinations thereof; alternatively, a C₁₁ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₁₂ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₁₃ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₁₄ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₁₅ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₁₆ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₁₇ monoolefin; or alternatively, a C₁₈ monoolefin. In some embodiments, the C₁₁₊ monoolefins can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₁₂ monoolefin, a C₁₆ monoolefin, a C₁₈ monoolefin, or combinations thereof; alternatively, a C₁₂ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₁₆ monoolefin; or alternatively, a C₁₈ monoolefin.

In an embodiment, the first feedstock disclosed herein can further comprise C₈ monoolefins, C₁₂ monoolefins, C₁₆ monoolefins, C₁₈ monoolefins, or combinations thereof; alternatively, C₈ monoolefins; alternatively, C₁₂ monoolefins; alternatively, C₁₆ monoolefins and/or C₁₈ monoolefins; alternatively, C₁₆ monoolefins; or alternatively, C₁₈ monoolefins. In an embodiment, the C₈ monoolefins can comprise 1-octene. In an embodiment, the C₁₂ monoolefins can comprise 1-dodecene.

In an embodiment, the first feedstock can further comprise from about 0.1 mol % to about 5 mol %, alternatively from about 0.25 mol % to about 4 mol %, or alternatively from about 0.5 mol % to about 3 mol % C₁₂ monoolefins. In such embodiment, the C₁₂ monoolefins can comprise from about 54 mol % to about 74 mol %, alternatively from about 56 mol % to about 72 mol %, alternatively from about 58 mol % to about 70 mol %, or alternatively from about 60 mol % to about 68 mol % 1-dodecene.

In an embodiment, the first feedstock can further comprise from about 0.1 mol % to about 5 mol %, alternatively from about 0.25 mol % to about 4 mol %, or alternatively from about 0.5 mol % to about 3 mol % C₈ monoolefins. In such embodiment, the C₈ monoolefins can comprise at least about 95 mol %, alternatively at least about 96 mol %, alternatively at least about 97 mol %, alternatively at least about 98 mol %, or alternatively at least about 99 mol % 1-octene.

In an embodiment, the first feedstock can further comprise from about 0.05 mol % to about 2 mol %, alternatively from about 0.04 mol % to about 1.5 mol %, alternatively from about 0.06 mol % to about 1.25 mol %, alternatively from about 0.08 mol % to about 1 mol %, or alternatively from about 0.1 mol % to about 0.75 mol % C₁₆ monoolefins and/or C₁₈ monoolefins.

In an embodiment, a feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins produced in a 1-hexene process can be purified to produce a second feedstock of the type described herein, for example to improve olefin reactivity and resultant mercaptan and/or sulfide purity. A light fraction, comprising C⁹⁻, can be removed from the feedstock and any C₁₀ olefin isomers can be collected overhead to obtain a high purity (>95%) C₁₀ monoolefin fraction as the second feedstock. This high purity C₁₀ monoolefin fraction (i.e., second feedstock) comprises little or no non-olefin impurities or C₁₁ to C₁₇ compounds. The high purity C₁₀ olefin can be reacted with H₂S to produce a crude composition. Reaction conditions to produce a crude composition from the high purity C₁₀ monoolefin fraction (i.e., a second feedstock) can be identical to the reaction conditions disclosed for the feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins produced in a 1-hexene process used as received without further purification (i.e., a first feedstock). The major difference between reacting a first feedstock and a second feedstock is the composition of the crude composition and any resulting purified or partially purified products (e.g., fractions or cuts taken from the crude composition). For the second feedstock (e.g., a high purity (>95%) C₁₀ monoolefin fraction), the crude composition can comprise residual H₂S, unreacted C₁₀ olefin, C₁₀ mercaptan isomers, and C₁₀H₂₁—S—C₁₀H₂₁ sulfides and minimal other mercaptans or sulfides. After removal of H₂S and C⁹⁻ lights from the crude composition, the resultant partially purified product will contain C₁₀ mercaptan isomers and C₂₀ sulfides, but will not contain any of the intermediate mercaptans and asymmetric sulfide components formed by reactions of olefins having less than or greater than 10 carbon atoms (because there were minimal, if any, such olefins having less than or greater than 10 carbon atoms in the purified feedstock). While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the intermediate mercaptans and asymmetric sulfide components can be produced from the reaction of C₁₀ mercaptans with other non-C₁₀ olefins.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted at an H₂S to olefin molar ratio of from about 1:1 to about 20:1, alternatively from about 2:1 to about 15:1, or alternatively from about 3:1 to about 10:1.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted at a pressure of from about 30 psig (206 kPag) to about 1,500 psig (10,300 kPag), alternatively from about 100 psig (690 kPag) to about 1,250 psig (8,600 kPag), or alternatively from about 250 psig (1,700 kPag) to about 1,000 psig (6,900 kPag).

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted to produce olefin conversion of equal to or greater than about 80%, alternatively equal to or greater than about 85%, or alternatively equal to or greater than about 90%. For purposes of the disclosure herein, an olefin conversion refers to the mol % of olefins that have reacted during the reaction between H₂S and a feedstock in a reactor, with respect to the amount of olefins introduced into the reactor during the same time period.

In an embodiment, the process can comprise reacting H₂S and a feedstock (e.g., a first or second feedstock as described herein) comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition; wherein the initiating agent comprises ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In such embodiment, the UV radiation can be any UV radiation capable of initiating the reaction of the olefins present in the feedstock and H₂S. In some embodiments, the UV radiation can be generated by a medium pressure mercury lamp. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, and with the help of this disclosure, although UV radiation can be the initiating agent, other suitable types of light sources can be used.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of an initiating agent comprising UV radiation in a batch reactor or a continuous reactor. Nonlimiting examples of continuous reactors suitable for use in the present disclosure include continuous flow reactors, continuous stirred reactors, fixed bed reactors, and the like, or combinations thereof. Nonlimiting examples of batch reactors suitable for use in the present disclosure include UV batch reactors. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, and with the help of this disclosure, any other suitable type of batch and continuous reactors can be used for reacting H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of UV radiation. UV reactors and conditions suitable for reacting H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of UV radiation are described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 7,989,655, and U.S. Publication No. 20140221692 A1, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In embodiments where H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins are reacted in the presence of UV radiation in a continuous reactor, the continuous reactor can be sized and configured to the desired continuous production rate. That is, a person skilled in the art will be able to select an appropriate reaction vessel size, geometry and material (e.g., a transparent material for sidewalls, windows, or internal chambers); along with an appropriate number of UV sources; and arrange the sources and reactor vessel (e.g., place UV sources adjacent a transparent exterior portion of the reaction vessel and/or disposed in transparent chambers within the reactor vessel) to yield a desired continuous production rate.

In embodiments where H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins are reacted in the presence of UV radiation in a batch reactor, the batch reactor can be characterized by a reaction time of from about 1 minute to about 4 hours, alternatively from about 10 minutes to about 2 hours, or alternatively from about 30 minutes to about 1.5 hours.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of UV radiation at a temperature of from about 0° C. to about 100° C., alternatively from about 10° C. to about 70° C., or alternatively from about 15° C. to about 35° C.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of UV radiation at a H₂S to olefin molar ratio of from about 1:1 to about 15:1, alternatively from about 2:1 to about 12.5:1, or alternatively from about 5:1 to about 10:1.

In an embodiment, the process can comprise reacting H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition; wherein the initiating agent comprises ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and wherein the initiating agent further comprises a phosphite promoter, a photoinitiator, or both.

In an embodiment, the phosphite promoter can be used in an amount of from about 0.01 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, alternatively from about 0.1 wt. % to about 4 wt. %, or alternatively from about 1 wt. % to about 2.5 wt. %, based on a weight of olefins.

In an embodiment, the phosphite promoter can be characterized by formula P(OR⁵)₃, wherein each R⁵ can independently be a C₁-C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, alternatively C₁-C₁₀ hydrocarbyl group, alternatively C₁-C₅ hydrocarbyl group; alternatively a C₁-C₁₈ alkyl group, alternatively C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, alternatively C₁-C₅ alkyl group; alternatively, a C₆-C₁₈ aryl group, or alternatively, a C₆-C₁₀ aryl group. Nonlimiting examples of R⁵ groups suitable for use in the present disclosure in the phosphite promoter include a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group; a phenyl group, a tolyl group, a xylyl group, a naphthyl group; and the like, or combinations thereof.

Nonlimiting examples of phosphite promoters suitable for use in the present disclosure include a trialkylphosphite, trimethylphosphite, triethylphosphite, tributylphosphite; a triarylphosphite, triphenylphosphite; and the like, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the photoinitiator can be used in an amount of from about 0.05 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, alternatively from about 0.1 wt. % to about 4 wt. %, or alternatively from about 1 wt. % to about 2.5 wt. %, based on the weight of olefins present in the feed mixture.

Nonlimiting examples of photoinitiators suitable for use in the present disclosure include 1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl-phenyl-ketone, benzophenone, Bis-(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)-phenylphosphineoxide, 2-hydroxy-1-{4-[4-(2-hydroxy-2-methyl-propionyl)-benzyl]-phenyl}-2-methy-1-propan-1-one, 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-1-propanone, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the process can comprise reacting H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of UV radiation to produce a crude composition (wherein the crude composition comprises from 50-100 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans, alternatively from 50-90 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans, alternatively from 75-85 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans); wherein the C₁₀ mercaptans present in the crude composition further comprise from about 70 wt. % to about 100 wt. %, alternatively from about 70 wt. % to about 95 wt. %, alternatively from about 80 wt. % to about 90 wt. %, or alternatively from about 79 wt. % to about 85 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans; from about 0 wt. % to about 30 wt. %, alternatively from about 0 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, alternatively from about 10 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, or alternatively from about 5 wt. % to about 19 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans; and from about 0 wt. % to about 10 wt. %, alternatively from about 0 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, or alternatively from about 0 wt. % to about 3 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans. For purposes of the disclosure herein, a primary mercaptan is a mercaptan that has the thiol group (—SH) attached to a primary carbon (e.g., a carbon atom that is attached to one and only one other carbon atom). Further, for purposes of the disclosure herein, a secondary mercaptan is a mercaptan that has the thiol group (—SH) attached to a secondary carbon (e.g., a carbon atom that is attached to two and only two other carbon atoms). Further, for purposes of the disclosure herein, a tertiary mercaptan is a mercaptan that has the thiol group (—SH) attached to a tertiary carbon (e.g., a carbon atom that is attached to three and only three other carbon atoms). As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, and with the help of this disclosure, the make-up of the crude composition, in terms of primary, secondary, and tertiary mercaptans, will depend on the make-up of the feedstock, as well as on the reaction conditions. Further, as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, and with the help of this disclosure, the make-up of each of the primary, secondary, and tertiary mercaptans will depend on the make-up of the feedstock, as well as on the reaction conditions.

In an embodiment, the C₁₀ primary mercaptans can comprise 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 1-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure M), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the C₁₀ secondary mercaptans can comprise 4-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure N), 5-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure O), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 2-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure P), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans can comprise equal to or greater than about 90 wt. %, alternatively equal to or greater than about 95 wt. %, or alternatively equal to or greater than about 99 wt. % 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H).

In an embodiment, the process can comprise reacting H₂S and a feedstock (e.g., a first or second feedstock as described herein) comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent (e.g., catalyst) to produce a crude composition; wherein the initiating agent comprises an acid catalyst. Nonlimiting examples of acid catalysts suitable for use in the present disclosure include acid washed clays (such as, but not limited to, Filtrol® 24 or Filtrol® 24X); acid washed bentonite; a tetrafluoroethylene polymer resin modified with perfluorovinyl ether groups terminated with sulfonate groups; a macroreticular, sulfonated, crosslinked copolymer of styrene and divinyl benzene; and the like, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of an acid catalyst in a continuous reactor, such as for example continuous flow reactor, continuous stirred reactors, fixed bed reactors, packed bed reactors, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In embodiments where H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins are reacted in the presence of an acid catalyst in a continuous reactor, the continuous reactor can be characterized by a weight hourly space velocity (WHSV) of from about 0.1 h⁻¹ to about 5 h⁻¹, alternatively from about 0.5 h⁻¹ to about 4 h⁻¹, or alternatively from about 1 h⁻¹ to about 3 h⁻¹, based on mass of olefin per mass of catalyst per hour.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of an acid catalyst at a temperature of from about 100° C. to about 300° C., alternatively from about 120° C. to about 220° C., or alternatively from about 180° C. to about 200° C.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of an acid catalyst at a H₂S to olefin molar ratio of from about 1:1 to about 10:1, alternatively from about 2:1 to about 7.5:1, or alternatively from about 2.5:1 to about 5:1.

In an embodiment, the process can comprise reacting H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an acid catalyst to produce a crude composition (wherein the crude composition comprises from 50-100 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans, alternatively from 50-90 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans, alternatively from 75-85 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans); wherein the C₁₀ mercaptans comprise from about 0 wt. % to about 5 wt. % alternatively from about 0.1 wt. % to about 4 wt. %, or alternatively from about 0.5 wt. % to about 2.5 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans; from about 80 wt. % to about 95 wt. %, alternatively from about 82.5 wt. % to about 92.5 wt. %, or alternatively from about 85 wt. % to about 90 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans; and from about 5 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, alternatively from about 7.5 wt. % to about 17.5 wt. %, or alternatively from about 10 wt. % to about 15 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.

In an embodiment, the process can comprise reacting H₂S and a feedstock (e.g., a first or second feedstock as described herein) comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition; wherein the initiating agent comprises a hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalyst.

In an embodiment, the HDS catalyst comprises a comprises a metal, a transition metal, Ru, Co, Mo, Ni, W, sulfides thereof, disulfides thereof, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the HDS catalyst can be Haldor Topsoe TK-554 or TK-570, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the HDS catalyst can further comprise a support, such as for example alumina, silica, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of an HDS catalyst in a continuous reactor, such as for example continuous flow reactor, continuous stirred reactors, fixed bed reactors, packed bed reactors, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In embodiments where H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins are reacted in the presence of an HDS catalyst in a continuous reactor, the continuous reactor can be characterized by a WHSV of from about 0.1 h⁻¹ to about 5 h⁻¹, alternatively from about 0.5 h⁻¹ to about 4 h⁻¹, or alternatively from about 1 h⁻¹ to about 3 h⁻¹, based on mass of olefin per mass of catalyst per hour.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of an HDS catalyst at a temperature of from about 100° C. to about 300° C., alternatively from about 120° C. to about 220° C., or alternatively from about 180° C. to about 200° C.

In an embodiment, H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted in the presence of an HDS catalyst at a H₂S to olefin molar ratio of from about 1:1 to about 10:1, alternatively from about 2:1 to about 7.5:1, or alternatively from about 2.5:1 to about 5:1.

In an embodiment, the process can comprise reacting H₂S and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an HDS catalyst to produce a crude composition (wherein the crude composition comprises from 50-100 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans, alternatively from 50-90 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans, alternatively from 75-85 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans); wherein the C₁₀ mercaptans comprise from about 5 wt. % to about 30 wt. % alternatively from about 10 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, or alternatively from about 15 wt. % to about 20 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans; from about 60 wt. % to about 75 wt. %, alternatively from about 62.5 wt. % to about 72.5 wt. %, or alternatively from about 65 wt. % to about 70 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans; and from about 5 wt. % to about 15 wt. %, alternatively from about 7.5 wt. % to about 13.5 wt. %, or alternatively from about 9 wt. % to about 12 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.

As noted previously, any such feedstocks comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins can be reacted with hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition, and the crude composition can be further refined (e.g., distilled or otherwise separated into one or more fractions such as lights, intermediate, and heavies) to yield the various compositions described herein. As described in more detail herein, the type and/or amounts of the constituent components that form the crude composition can vary depending upon the feedstock (e.g., the amount and types of olefins therein), the reaction conditions, the catalysts employed, etc., and one skilled in the art can tailor the post reactor processing of the crude composition to account for the specific compounds present in a given crude composition to yield various desired products and compositions of the types described herein.

Upon completion of the reaction of a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins with hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), a reactor effluent can be recovered from the reactor and H₂S removed therefrom to yield a crude composition. The term “crude composition” or “crude product” refers to an unrefined effluent stream recovered from the reactor after removal of H₂S, and in particular to an H₂S-free effluent stream that has not undergone any additional post-reactor processing such as flashing, distillation, or other separation techniques or processes to remove any components from the effluent stream other than the initial removal of H₂S.

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a highly corrosive, poisonous, flammable, explosive gas. As such, it is typically removed before the crude composition can be further processed or utilized. Bulk H₂S can be removed under conditions of reduced pressure, and residual H₂S can be removed at reduced temperature and pressure without removing any substantial quantities of the lights. Alternatively, H₂S can also be removed by sparging inert gas into the liquid phase. Alternatively, there are other methods for removing H₂S (i.e., absorption, stripping, etc.) that are known to those of skill in the art. In an embodiment, under appropriate conditions, a reactor effluent can be treated to remove essentially all of any excess and/or unreacted hydrogen sulfide (H₂S).

The crude composition comprises branched C₁₀ mercaptans and branched C₂₀ sulfides formed by the reaction of H₂S and the one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins, and the structures of these branched C₁₀ mercaptans and branched C₂₀ sulfides are described in more detail herein. In addition to branched C₁₀ mercaptans and branched C₂₀ sulfides, the crude composition can comprise a number of other compounds such as unreacted olefins, inert compounds (e.g., alkanes), non-branched C₁₀ mercaptans, non-branched C₂₀ sulfides, non-C₁₀ mercaptans, non-C₂₀ sulfides, and other impurities. The constituent components contained within the crude composition can vary depending upon the composition of the feedstock (e.g., an unpurified first feedstock as compared to a purified second feedstock as described herein) as well as reaction conditions, catalyst, etc. In various embodiments, a crude composition can comprise light, intermediate, and heavy fractions as described herein.

In an embodiment, the crude compositions can contain a variety of other non-C₁₀ mercaptan and non-C₂₀ sulfides components (e.g., impurities) such as C₈ mercaptans; C₁₂ mercaptans; C₁₄ mercaptans; C₁₆ mercaptans; C₁₈ mercaptans; C₁₆₋₃₆ sulfides represented by the structure R³—S—R⁴, wherein R³ and R⁴ are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin selected from the group consisting of C₈ monoolefins, C₁₀ monoolefins, C₁₂ monoolefins, C₁₄ monoolefins, C₁₆ monoolefins, and C₁₈ monoolefins, wherein R³ and R⁴ are not both branched C₁₀ monoolefins; unreacted C₈₋₁₈ monoolefins; non-olefin impurities selected from the group consisting of C₈₋₁₄ alkanes, cyclohexane, methylcyclopentane, methylcyclohexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, mesitylene, hexamethylbenzene, C₄₋₁₂ alcohols, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and 2-ethylhexyl-2-ethylhexanoate; and combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a crude composition comprising branched C₁₀ mercaptans and branched C₂₀ sulfides can be separated by any process or unit operation known in the art. For example, a crude composition can be processed (e.g., distilled) to remove a fraction of light compounds. Alternatively, a crude composition can be processed to recover both a lights fraction and an intermediates fraction (e.g., a rough cut), followed by further processing to obtain one or more fine cuts. Alternatively, a crude composition can be processed to recover a heavies fraction (e.g., a C₂₀ sulfide fraction). Alternatively, a crude composition can be processed to separate out any combination of a lights fraction, an intermediates fraction (e.g., comprising C₁₀ mercaptans, including branched C₁₀ mercaptans), and a heavies fraction (e.g., comprising C₂₀ sulfides, including branched C₂₀ sulfides). Furthermore, a light, intermediate or heavy fraction (e.g., a rough cut) can be further processed or parsed to obtain one or more desired fine cuts (e.g., a C₁₀ mercaptan fraction). Alternatively, a crude composition can be separated to produce a high-purity C₁₀ mercaptan stream and/or a high-purity C₂₀ sulfide stream (e.g., to obtain a desired fine cut or fraction such as a C₁₀ mercaptan fraction). Further, these separated streams can be blended in any combination of ratios to produce a mixture with specific concentrations of one of more components (e.g., desired blend ratios of branched C₁₀ mercaptans and/or branched C₂₀ sulfides, for example to aid in a particular end use). The unit operations/processes used for these separations are known to one of skill and the art and include, but are not limited to, distillation, fractionation, flashing, stripping, and absorption, and others. The unit operation conditions, such as for example, temperature, pressure, flow rates, and others at which these unit operations produce one or more of the desired fractions can easily be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art.

In an embodiment, a lights fraction is removed from the crude composition, for example by flashing, distillation, fractionation, stripping, absorption, etc.

In an embodiment, the lights fraction can comprise at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, alternatively at least about 96 wt. %, alternatively at least about 97 wt. %, alternatively at least about 98 wt. %, alternatively at least about 99 wt. % C⁹⁻ compounds, based on the total weight of the lights fraction. Nonlimiting examples of C⁹⁻ compounds include C⁹⁻ monoolefins (e.g., unreacted C⁹⁻ monoolefins), C⁹⁻ mercaptans, C⁹⁻ alkanes, cyclohexane, methylcyclopentane, methylcyclohexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, mesitylene, C⁹⁻ alcohols, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and the like, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the lights fraction can comprise less than about 10 wt. %, alternatively less than about 5 wt. %, alternatively less than about 4 wt. %, alternatively at less than about 3 wt. %, alternatively less than about 2 wt. %, alternatively less than about 1 wt. % C₁₀₊ compounds, based on the total weight of the lights fraction.

In an embodiment, the C⁹⁻ monoolefins can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₇ monoolefin, a C₈ monoolefin, a C₉ monoolefin, or combinations thereof; alternatively, a C₇ monoolefin; alternatively, a C₈ monoolefin; or alternatively, a C₉ monoolefin. In some embodiments, the C⁹⁻ monoolefins can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₈ monoolefin (e.g., 1-octene).

In an embodiment, the C⁹⁻ mercaptans can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₇ mercaptan, a C₈ mercaptan, a C₉ mercaptan, or combinations thereof; alternatively, a C₇ mercaptan; alternatively, a C₈ mercaptan; or alternatively, a C₉ mercaptan. In some embodiments, the C⁹⁻ mercaptans can comprise, can consist essentially of, or can be, a C₈ mercaptan.

Following removal of the lights (for example, via flash), a combined intermediate and heavy fraction (i.e., C₁₀₊ compounds sometimes referred to as a kettle product in the Examples) can remain, and the combined intermediate and heavy fraction can be used “as is” or can be further processed, for example separated or split into separate intermediate and heavy fractions (and said separate intermediate and heavy fractions can be subsequently recombined in various blends and associated blend ratios), as described in more detail herein. In an embodiment, a combined intermediate and heavy fraction (i.e., C₁₀₊ compounds) formed by removal of the lights fraction from the crude composition can comprise less than about 15 wt. %, alternatively less than about 10 wt. %, alternatively less than about 9 wt. %, alternatively less than about 8 wt. %, alternatively less than about 7 wt. %, alternatively less than about 6 wt. %, alternatively less than about 5 wt. %, alternatively less than about 4 wt. %, alternatively less than about 3 wt. %, alternatively less than about 2 wt. %, alternatively less than about 1 wt. % C⁹⁻ products, based on the total weight of the combined intermediate and heavy fraction (i.e., C₁₀₊ compounds).

In an embodiment, a combined intermediate and heavy fraction (i.e., C₁₀₊ compounds) can comprise (A) at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % mercaptans; wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof; and (B) at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 15 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, alternatively at least about 25 wt. % sulfides, or alternatively at least about 30 wt. % sulfides; wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the crude composition can be flashed to remove a lights fraction as described herein to produce a combined intermediate and heavy fraction (i.e., C₁₀₊ compounds) comprising: (A) at least about 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, or 85 wt. % C₁₀ branched mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof and (B) at least about 5 wt. %, alternatively at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 15 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, alternatively at least about 25 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 30 wt. % branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the crude composition can be flashed to remove a lights fraction as described herein to produce a combined intermediate and heavy fraction (i.e., C₁₀₊ compounds) comprising: (A) from at least about 50 wt. % to at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively from at least about 55 wt. % to at least about 85 wt. %, or alternatively from at least about 60 wt. % to at least about 80 wt. % mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof; and (B) from at least about 10 wt. % to at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively from at least about 10 wt. % to at least about 25 wt. %, alternatively from at least about 12.5 wt. % to at least about 22.5 wt. %, or alternatively from at least about 15 wt. % to at least about 20 wt. % sulfides; wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the crude composition can be flashed to remove a lights fraction and subsequently further separated to produce an intermediate fraction and a heavies fraction. The intermediate fraction and the heavies fractions can then be optionally further processed (e.g., polished) and mixed in any appropriate ratio to produce a blended composition comprising: (A) at least about 25 wt. %, alternatively at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively at least about 40 wt. %, alternatively at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 90 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans (e.g., branched C₁₀ mercaptans) selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof; (B) at least about 5 wt. %, alternatively at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 15 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, alternatively at least about 25 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 30 wt. % C₂₀ sulfides (e.g., branched C₂₀ sulfides) represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof; and one or more of the following components (C)-(I): (C) less than about 5 wt. %, alternatively less than about 4 wt. %, alternatively less than about 3 wt. %, alternatively less than about 2 wt. %, or alternatively less than about 1 wt. % C₈ mercaptans; (D) less than about 15 wt. %, alternatively less than about 10 wt. %, or alternatively less than about 5 wt. % C₁₂ mercaptans; (E) less than about 15 wt. %, alternatively less than about 10 wt. %, or alternatively less than about 5 wt. % C₁₄ mercaptans; (F) less than about 5 wt. %, alternatively less than about 4 wt. %, alternatively less than about 3 wt. %, alternatively less than about 2 wt. %, or alternatively less than about 1 wt. % C₁₆ mercaptans and/or C₁₈ mercaptans; (G) less than about 1 wt. %, alternatively less than about 0.5 wt. %, alternatively less than about 0.4 wt. %, alternatively less than about 0.3 wt. %, alternatively less than about 0.2 wt. %, or alternatively less than about 0.1 wt. % C₁₆₋₃₆ sulfides represented by the structure R³—S—R⁴, wherein R³ and R⁴ are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin selected from the group consisting of C₈ monoolefins, C₁₀ monoolefins, C₁₂ monoolefins, C₁₄ monoolefins, C₁₆ monoolefins, and C₁₈ monoolefins, wherein R³ and R⁴ are not both branched C₁₀ monoolefins; (H) less than about 10 wt. %, alternatively less than about 5 wt. %, alternatively less than about 4 wt. %, alternatively less than about 3 wt. %, alternatively less than about 2 wt. %, or alternatively less than about 1 wt. % unreacted C₈₋₁₈ monoolefins; and (I) less than about 10 wt. %, alternatively less than about 5 wt. %, alternatively less than about 4 wt. %, alternatively less than about 3 wt. %, alternatively less than about 2 wt. %, or alternatively less than about 1 wt. % non-olefin impurities selected from the group consisting of C₈₋₁₄ alkanes, cyclohexane, methylcyclopentane, methylcyclohexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, mesitylene, hexamethylbenzene, C₄₋₁₂ alcohols, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and 2-ethylhexyl-2-ethylhexanoate. In various embodiments, the blended composition can comprise varying amounts of each of components (C)-(I), and the presence of each component (C)-(I) and the amount thereof can be independently formulated and/or controlled. In various embodiments, the blended composition can comprise an amount of one or more components (C)-(I) that is greater than zero (i.e., above a detection limit associated with the component) and less than the upper range endpoint set forth above (e.g., component (C) is present in the composition in an amount greater than zero and less than about 5 wt. %, and so forth as set forth above).

In some embodiments, a mercaptan/sulfide composition of the type disclosed herein can be prepared by combining at least a portion of a first mercaptan/sulfide composition (wherein only a lights fraction has been removed from the crude product to yield a combined intermediate and heavy fraction, e.g., C₁₀₊ compounds) with at least a portion of a heavies fraction comprising a sulfide composition to yield a second mercaptan/sulfide composition, wherein a sulfide content of the second mercaptan/sulfide composition is greater than a sulfide content of the first mercaptan/sulfide composition.

In an embodiment, the crude can be separated into light, intermediate, and heavy fractions by distillation, for example in a single distillation column having a light fraction recovered as an overhead stream, an intermediate fraction (e.g., comprising branched C₁₀ mercaptans) recovered as a side stream, and a heavy fraction (e.g., comprising branched C₂₀ sulfides) recovered as a bottom stream. In alternative embodiments, the separation can be in sequential steps such as removal of the lights fraction in a first distillation column, followed by separation of the intermediate fraction (e.g., comprising branched C₁₀ mercaptans) as an overhead stream in a second distillation column and the heavy fraction (e.g., comprising C₁₁₊ compounds, including branched C₂₀ sulfides) as a bottom stream of the second distillation column. These “rough-cut” light, intermediate, and heavy streams can be used “as is” or they can be further processed (e.g., further refined or polished, for example by additional distillation or other separation techniques to produce “fine-cuts”) and/or blended to obtain a variety of products that are salable or otherwise available for a variety of end uses such as mining ore collector compositions or chain transfer agents. For example, a variety of mercaptan compositions, sulfide compositions, and mixed mercaptan/sulfide compositions can be produced of the type disclosed in more detail herein.

In an embodiment, an intermediate fraction can comprise at least about 25 wt. %, alternatively at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively at least about 40 wt. %, alternatively at least about 50 wt. % branched C₁₀ mercaptans, alternatively at least about 75 wt. % branched C₁₀ mercaptans, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % branched C₁₀ mercaptans. In such embodiment, the branched C₁₀ mercaptans can be selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the heavy fraction can comprise at least about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, or 85 wt. %, branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² are each independently a branched C₁₀ alkyl group derived from the branched C₁₀ monoolefin, and wherein the branched C₁₀ alkyl group is selected from the group consisting of

wherein * designates the attachment point to the S atom of the branched C₂₀ sulfide.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan composition can comprise mercaptans, wherein at least a portion of the mercaptans comprise C₁₀ mercaptans, and wherein at least a portion of the C₁₀ mercaptans comprise branched C₁₀ mercaptans. In an embodiment, the branched C₁₀ mercaptans can comprise 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), or combinations thereof.

For purposes of the disclosure herein, branched C₁₀ mercaptans refer to mercaptans (or thiols) that are characterized by the general formula R—SH, wherein R is a branched alkyl group (as opposed to a linear alkyl group), i.e., an alkyl group substituted with alkyl substituents; and wherein R has a total of 10 carbon atoms. Further, for purposes of the disclosure herein, a composition comprising mercaptans, wherein at least a portion of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans (e.g., 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), or combinations thereof), can also be referred to as a “branched C₁₀ mercaptan composition.” In an embodiment, the mercaptan composition can comprise any suitable amount of branched C₁₀ mercaptans.

In an embodiment, the C₁₀ mercaptans can further comprise non-branched C₁₀ mercaptans, such as for example 1-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure M), 4-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure N), 5-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure O), 2-mercapto-decane (represented by Structure P), or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, a mercaptan composition can comprise mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In other embodiments, a mercaptan composition can comprise at least about 1 wt. %, alternatively at least about 5 wt. %, alternatively at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, alternatively at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively at least about 40 wt. %, alternatively at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % mercaptans, wherein at least a portion of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In yet other embodiments, a mercaptan composition can comprise at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % mercaptans; wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least 85 wt. % of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In yet other embodiments, a mercaptan composition can comprise at least about 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99 wt. % mercaptans; wherein at least about 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99 wt. % of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a mercaptan composition can comprise from at least about 50 wt. % to at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively from at least about 55 wt. % to at least about 85 wt. %, or alternatively from at least about 60 wt. % to at least about 80 wt. % mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a mercaptan composition can consist of or consist essentially of branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a mercaptan composition can comprise at least about 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99 wt. % branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a composition can comprise mercaptans, wherein at least about 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99 wt. % of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a sulfide composition can comprise sulfides, wherein at least a portion of the sulfides comprise C₂₀ sulfides, and wherein at least a portion of the C₂₀ sulfides comprise branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² can each independently be an alkyl group, and wherein at least a portion of the alkyl groups comprises a branched C₁₀ alkyl group. In an embodiment, the alkyl group (e.g., a branched C₁₀ alkyl group as R¹, R²) can comprise a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

For purposes of the disclosure herein a sulfide will be referred to by the total number of carbon atoms (as opposed to the number of carbons of only one of the alkyl groups present in a dialkyl sulfide). For example, a H₂₁C₁₀—S—C₁₀H₂₁ sulfide will be referred to as a C₂₀ sulfide (rather than a C₁₀ sulfide). For purposes of the disclosure herein, branched C₂₀ sulfides refer to sulfides (or thioethers) that are characterized by the general formula R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² are each independently a branched C₁₀ alkyl group (as opposed to a linear alkyl group), i.e., an alkyl group substituted with alkyl substituents. Stated alternatively, branched C₂₀ sulfides refer to sulfides wherein both R¹ and R² are branched C₁₀ alkyl groups, wherein R¹ and R² can be the same or different. Further, for purposes of the disclosure herein, a composition comprising sulfides, wherein at least a portion of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² are each independently an alkyl group, wherein at least a portion of the alkyl group comprises a branched C₁₀ alkyl group (e.g., a functional group derived from an olefin, and wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof), can also be referred to as a “branched C₂₀ sulfide composition.” In an embodiment, the sulfide composition can comprise any suitable amount of branched C₂₀ sulfides.

In an embodiment, a sulfide composition can comprise sulfides, wherein at least a portion of the sulfides comprise C₂₀ sulfides, and wherein at least a portion of the C₂₀ sulfides comprise branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a branched C₁₀ alkyl group derived from a branched C₁₀ monoolefin, and wherein the branched C₁₀ alkyl group is selected from the group consisting of

wherein * designates the attachment point to the S atom of the branched C₂₀ sulfide. In an embodiment, the branched C₁₀ monoolefin can comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof. Generally, a monoolefin is a linear or branched aliphatic hydrocarbon olefin that has one and only one carbon-carbon double bond. Generally, a C_(n) monoolefin is a linear or branched aliphatic hydrocarbon olefin that has n and only n carbon atoms, and one and only one carbon-carbon double bond. A C₁₀ monoolefin is a linear or branched aliphatic hydrocarbon olefin that has ten and only ten carbon atoms, and one and only one carbon-carbon double bond. A branched C₁₀ monoolefin is a branched aliphatic hydrocarbon olefin that has ten and only ten carbon atoms, and one and only one carbon-carbon double bond.

In an embodiment, the C₂₀ sulfides can further comprise non-branched C₂₀ sulfides and/or partially branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² (in the case of non-branched C₂₀ sulfides) or one of the R¹ and R² (in the case of partially-branched C₂₀ sulfides) can be a linear C₁₀ alkyl group derived from a linear C₁₀ monoolefin, such as for example 4-decene (represented by Structure Q), 5-decene (represented by Structure R), 1-decene (represented by Structure S), or combinations thereof.

For purposes of the disclosure herein, the non-branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R² are the sulfides wherein both R¹ and R² are each independently a linear C₁₀ alkyl group derived from a linear C₁₀ monoolefin. Further, for purposes of the disclosure herein, the partially branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R² are the sulfides wherein one of the R¹ and R² is a linear C₁₀ alkyl group derived from a linear C₁₀ monoolefin, while the other one of the R¹ and R² is a branched C₁₀ alkyl group derived from a branched C₁₀ monoolefin as described herein.

In some embodiments, a sulfide composition can comprise sulfides, wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In other embodiments, a sulfide composition can comprise at least about 1 wt. %, alternatively at least about 5 wt. %, alternatively at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, alternatively at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively at least about 40 wt. %, alternatively at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % sulfides, wherein at least a portion of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In other embodiments, a sulfide composition can comprise at least about 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99 wt. %, sulfides, wherein at least about 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99 wt. % of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In yet other embodiments, a sulfide composition can comprise at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 15 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 25 wt. % sulfides; wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a sulfide composition can comprise from at least about 10 wt. % to at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively from at least about 12.5 wt. % to at least about 22.5 wt. %, or alternatively from at least about 15 wt. % to at least about 20 wt. % sulfides; wherein at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 75 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 85 wt. % of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a sulfide composition can consist of or consist essentially of branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a sulfide composition can comprise at least about 5 wt. %, alternatively at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 15 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 20 wt. % C₂₀ sulfides (e.g., branched C₂₀ sulfides) represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In still yet other embodiments, a sulfide composition comprises at least about 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99 wt. % branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan/sulfide composition can comprise one or more mercaptans and one or more sulfides of the type disclosed herein. For purposes of the disclosure herein, a composition comprising (i) mercaptans, wherein at least a portion of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans, and (ii) sulfides, wherein at least a portion of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides, can also be referred to as a “branched C₁₀ mercaptan/C₂₀ sulfide composition.” In an embodiment, the mercaptan/sulfide composition can comprise any suitable amount of branched C₁₀ mercaptans, and any suitable amount of branched C₂₀ sulfides.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan/sulfide composition can comprise (A) at least about 1 wt. %, alternatively at least about 5 wt. %, alternatively at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, alternatively at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively at least about 40 wt. %, alternatively at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % mercaptans, wherein at least a portion of the mercaptans can be branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof; and (B) at least about 1 wt. %, alternatively at least about 5 wt. %, alternatively at least about 10 wt. %, alternatively at least about 20 wt. %, alternatively at least about 30 wt. %, alternatively at least about 40 wt. %, alternatively at least about 50 wt. %, alternatively at least about 60 wt. %, alternatively at least about 70 wt. %, alternatively at least about 80 wt. %, alternatively at least about 90 wt. %, alternatively at least about 95 wt. %, or alternatively at least about 99 wt. % sulfides, wherein at least a portion of the sulfides can be branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein both R¹ and R² can each independently be a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan/sulfide composition can comprise C₁₀ mercaptans represented by the general formula R—SH and/or C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R² that are formed by reacting an olefin feedstock comprising olefins with H₂S as described in more detail herein, wherein the olefins present in the olefin feedstock provide the alkyl group represented by R, R¹, and R². In such embodiments, the R group of the C₁₀ mercaptans and/or the R¹ and R² groups of the C₂₀ sulfides are provided by or derived from the counterpart R, R¹, and R² groups present in the olefins in the olefin feedstock. In an embodiment, R, R¹ and R² can each independently be an alkyl group, wherein at least a portion of the alkyl groups can comprise a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin is present in a feedstock (e.g., a first feedstock as described herein) comprising a) at least about 76 mol %, alternatively at least about 78 mol %, alternatively at least about 80 mol %, or alternatively at least about 82 mol % C₁₀ monoolefins; and b) at least about 1 mol %, alternatively at least about 2 mol %, alternatively at least about 3 mol %, or alternatively at least about 4 mol % C₁₄ monoolefins. In such embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins can comprise i) at least about 3 mol %, alternatively at least about 4 mol %, alternatively at least about 5 mol %, alternatively at least about 6 mol %, alternatively at least about 7 mol %, or alternatively at least about 8 mol % 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), ii) at least about 8 mol %, alternatively at least about 9 mol %, alternatively at least about 10 mol %, alternatively at least about 11 mol %, alternatively at least about 12 mol %, or alternatively at least about 13 mol % 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), iii) at least about 6 mol %, alternatively at least about 7 mol %, alternatively at least about 8 mol %, alternatively at least about 9 mol %, alternatively at least about 10 mol %, or alternatively at least about 11 mol % 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), and iv) at least about 20 mol %, alternatively at least about 22 mol %, alternatively at least about 24 mol %, alternatively at least about 26 mol %, alternatively at least about 28 mol %, or alternatively at least about 30 mol % 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I). In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins can comprise from about 1 mol % to about 16 mol %, alternatively from about 2 mol % to about 15 mol %, alternatively from about 3 mol % to about 14 mol %, alternatively from about 4 mol % to about 13 mol %, or alternatively from about 6 mol % to about 12 mol % 4-decene and/or 5-decene. In an embodiment, the C₁₀ monoolefins can comprise from about 0.5 mol % to about 9 mol %, alternatively from about 1 mol % to about 8 mol %, alternatively from about 1.5 mol % to about 7 mol %, or alternatively from about 2 mol % to about 6 mol % 1-decene.

In an embodiment, the olefin (e.g., corresponding to R, R¹ or R²) present in the olefin feedstock (e.g., a first feedstock as described herein) can further comprise from about 0.1 mol % to about 5 mol %, alternatively from about 0.25 mol % to about 4 mol %, or alternatively from about 0.5 mol % to about 3 mol % C₁₂ monoolefins. In such embodiment, the C₁₂ monoolefins can comprise from about 54 mol % to about 74 mol %, alternatively from about 56 mol % to about 72 mol %, alternatively from about 58 mol % to about 70 mol %, or alternatively from about 60 mol % to about 68 mol % 1-dodecene.

In an embodiment, the olefin (e.g., corresponding to R, R¹ or R²) present in the olefin feedstock (e.g., a first feedstock as described herein) can further comprise from about 0.1 mol % to about 5 mol %, alternatively from about 0.25 mol % to about 4 mol %, or alternatively from about 0.5 mol % to about 3 mol % C₈ monoolefins. In such embodiment, the C₈ monoolefins can comprise at least about 95 mol %, alternatively at least about 96 mol %, alternatively at least about 97 mol %, alternatively at least about 98 mol %, or alternatively at least about 99 mol % 1-octene.

In an embodiment, the olefin (e.g., corresponding to R, R¹ or R²) present in the olefin feedstock (e.g., a first feedstock as described herein) can further comprise from about 0.05 mol % to about 2 mol %, alternatively from about 0.04 mol % to about 1.5 mol %, alternatively from about 0.06 mol % to about 1.25 mol %, alternatively from about 0.08 mol % to about 1 mol %, or alternatively from about 0.1 mol % to about 0.75 mol % C₁₆ monoolefins and/or C₁₈ monoolefins.

In an embodiment where the R group of the C₁₀ mercaptans and/or the R¹ and R² groups of the C₂₀ sulfides are provided by or derived from the counterpart R, R¹, and R² groups present in the olefins in the olefin feedstock (e.g., a first feedstock obtained from a 1-hexene process as described herein), the resultant mercaptan/sulfide composition can be a crude composition that can be further separated and refined into other compositions as described herein.

In an embodiment, mercaptan compositions, sulfide compositions, and/or mercaptan/sulfide compositions as disclosed herein advantageously display improvements in one or more composition characteristics when compared to otherwise similar compositions lacking branched C₁₀ mercaptans.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan composition and/or a mercaptan/sulfide composition comprising equal to or greater than about 25 wt. % C₁₀ branched mercaptans as disclosed herein can advantageously have an odor less unpleasant and less offensive than an odor of an otherwise similar composition comprising equal to or greater than about 25 wt. % n-decyl mercaptan, as perceived by equal to or greater than about 51% of human subjects exposed to the odor of each composition.

In an embodiment, a mercaptan composition and/or a mercaptan/sulfide composition comprising equal to or greater than about 25 wt. % C₁₀ branched mercaptans as disclosed herein can advantageously have an odor less unpleasant than an odor of an otherwise similar composition comprising equal to or greater than about 25 wt. % n-dodecyl mercaptan and/or tert-dodecyl mercaptan, as perceived by equal to or greater than about 51% of human subjects exposed to the odor of each composition. Additional advantages of the mercaptan compositions, sulfide compositions, and/or mercaptan/sulfide compositions and processes of producing same as disclosed herein can be apparent to one of skill in the art viewing this disclosure.

EXAMPLES

The subject matter having been generally described, the following examples are given as particular embodiments of the disclosure and to demonstrate the practice and advantages thereof. It is understood that the examples are given by way of illustration and are not intended to limit the specification of the claims to follow in any manner.

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and a feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins were reacted in the presence of various initiating agents: UV radiation, an acid catalyst, and a hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalyst.

Various feedstocks (e.g., olefin feedstocks) were used for reacting with H₂S to produce mercaptans and/or sulfides. More specifically, olefin feedstocks obtained from 1-hexene production processes were used as feedstocks for reacting with H₂S to produce mercaptans. Gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometry (MS) (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were used for analyzing the composition of olefin feedstocks obtained from 1-hexene production processes.

The compositions comprising C₁₀ monoolefins, i.e., the feedstocks obtained from a 1-hexene production process, were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) using a 15 m×0.25 mm×0.5 μm DB-5 column and/or a 40 m×0.1 mm×0.1 μm DB-1 column to determine component identities, and standard gas chromatography (GC) using a 60 m×0.32 mm×1 μm DB-1 column to determine the quantity of the components present in the compositions. As described previously, these compositions are measured in area %, which is substantially similar and analogous to wt. %.

Table 1 provides representative information about the composition of such an olefin feedstock obtained from 1-hexene production processes to react with H₂S to produce mercaptans—Samples #1-4 in Example 1.

TABLE 1 Chemical GC Area % Normalized % cyclohexane 2.148 octene 0.036 C₈ olefins 1.17 1.24 1-octene 1.135 octane 0.146 octane 0.15 0.16 ethylbenzene 1.684 3-propyl-1-heptene 14.590 C₁₀ olefins 84.16 89.11 decene 0.164 4-ethyl-1-octene 13.134 5-methyl-1-nonene 32.144 decene 0.647 2-butyl-1-hexene 9.960 decene 0.320 4/5 decene 9.116 1-decene 4.086 decane 0.360 decane 0.36 0.38 2-ethyl-1-hexanol 1.379 dodecene isomers 0.448 C₁₂ olefins 1.29 1.37 1-dodecene 0.842 dodecane 0.182 dodecane 0.18 0.19 tetradecenes 6.710 C₁₄ olefins 6.71 7.11 tetradecane 0.198 tetradecane 0.2 0.21 octadecene 0.222 C₁₈ olefins 0.22 0.23 2-ethylhexyl-2- 0.069 ethylhexanoate Unknowns 0.281 Total 100.000 total olefins 94.44 99.06 Normalized to include only octane, decane, dodecane, tetradecane, and C₈, C₁₀, C₁₂, C₁₄, and C₁₈ olefins

As mentioned previously, the olefin feedstock was produced from the trimerization of ethylene in a 1-hexene production process. As shown in Table 1, the total product content of this particular olefin feedstock sample (excluding the compounds that are not products of the 1-hexene process) is 94.44 area %, and 84.16 area % of the feedstock is C₁₀ olefin isomers. The C₁₀ olefins represent over 89 area % of the total olefin content when the sample is normalized to remove the compounds that are not products of the 1-hexene process. Cyclohexane, ethylbenzene, and 2-ethylhexanol can be present in the olefin feedstock as residual components of the 1-hexene oligomerization process. The structures of C₁₀ isomers that can be present in the olefin feedstock are shown in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Decene Fraction Olefin Major UV Product Major Acid Catalyst Product 5-methyl- 1-nonene 32.14% (38.19)

3-propyl- 1-heptene 14.59% (17.33)

4-ethyl- 1-octene 13.13% (15.60)

2-butyl- 1-hexene 9.96% (11.83)

4/5 decene 9.12% (10.83)

1-decene 4.09% (4.86)

In Table 2, the first column provides the name of the isomer, the GC area % of that component in the feedstock from Table 1, and the normalized amount of the isomer typically found in the C₁₀ fraction of the feedstock. Table 2 also displays the structure of the mercaptans that are produced from the C₁₀ olefin isomers. The second column shows the structure of the major C₁₀ olefin isomers in the feedstock; the third column displays the structure of the major mercaptan isomers produced by a UV-initiated reaction with H₂S; and the fourth column displays the structure of the major mercaptan isomers produced by acid catalysis, such as Filtrol® 24 or Filtrol® 24X.

A sample of the olefin feedstock was fractionated (e.g., distilled) and only the C₁₀ fraction was isolated in high purity (e.g., a purified feedstock). This product was submitted for H¹ and C¹³ NMR. The NMR analysis (in mol %) was consistent the GC-MS results. The NMR confirmed that about 11 mol % of the total purified feedstock was vinylidene (2 butyl-1-hexene isomer) and about 11 mol % of the total purified feedstock was internal olefins (linear decene isomers). The nomenclature for the various C₁₀ isomer products is shown in Table 3.

TABLE 3 C₁₀ Olefin UV-initiated Mercaptans Acid-catalyzed Mercaptans 5-methyl- 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane 1-nonene 3-propyl- 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane 1-heptene 4-ethyl-1- 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane 4-ethyl-mercapto-octane octene 2-butyl-1- 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane 5-mercapto-5-methyl-nonane hexene 4-decene 4-mercapto-decane 4-mercapto-decane 5-mercapto-decane 5-mercapto-decane 5-decene 4-mercapto-decane 4-mercapto-decane 5-mercapto-decane 5-mercapto-decane 1-decene 1-mercapto-decane 2-mercapto-decane

Reaction of H₂S with the olefin feedstock (e.g., a feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins) by UV-initiation (e.g., using UV radiation) yielded mostly primary mercaptans, since the terminal olefin and vinylidene isomers yield predominately the anti-Markovnikov product. The minor components were secondary mercaptans from the terminal olefin and a tertiary mercaptan from the vinylidene isomer. Typically, UV-initiation of a terminal olefin produced primary mercaptans in 92-96 area % range and secondary mercaptans in 4-8 area % range. The linear internal olefin isomers present in the feedstock primarily produced secondary mercaptan isomers. Thus, for the composition of the feedstock disclosed herein, the distribution of mercaptans (i.e., the distribution within the C₁₀ fraction) in the resulting reaction product was predominately primary mercaptans at about 80-90 area %. Secondary mercaptans were present at 10-20 area %, and tertiary mercaptans were present at about 0-3 area %. These ranges were calculated by NMR analysis of the reaction product.

Reaction of H₂S with a feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins over an acid catalyst (such as Filtrol® 24 or Filtrol® 24X) produced as the major product the Markovnikov product. Thus, the major mercaptan isomers comprised secondary mercaptans with some tertiary mercaptans. The relative ratio of mercaptans was estimated at 85-90 area % secondary mercaptans and 10-15 area % tertiary mercaptans.

Reaction of H₂S with a feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of a hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalyst (such as Haldor Topsoe TK-554 or TK0570) produced mercaptans generally similar in distribution to those produced by acid catalysis, which is the Markovnikov distribution. However, the HDS catalyst also produced a significant amount of the anti-Markovnikov product depending on the conditions used in the reaction step. Thus, under the conditions used in this disclosure, the product produced by the HDS catalyst was a blend of the product produced via acid catalysis with some of the components produced by the UV-initiated reaction.

As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, and with the help of this disclosure, the actual composition of the resultant crude product will ultimately depend on a number of factors including composition of the feedstock; the ratio of H₂S to olefin that is used to produce the thiols; the catalytic method and reaction conditions used to react the H₂S and olefin (UV-initiated, acid catalysis, or HDS catalysis) to produce the crude product; etc. The final product (e.g., any cuts separated from the crude to form, for example, a commercial product) will also depend on the purification step to remove lights and whether a final product containing both mercaptan and sulfide fractions is desired or just one of the fractions, e.g., a mercaptan fraction or a sulfide fraction, is desired.

H₂S to Olefin Molar Ratio:

The H₂S to olefin molar ratio can be an important parameter in determining the amount of mercaptan and sulfide produced during the reaction step. This can be true regardless of the catalytic method employed. Without wishing to be limited by theory and in general, the higher the H₂S to olefin molar ratio, the greater the amount of mercaptans that will be produced compared to the amount of sulfides produced.

A general reaction scheme for addition of H₂S to an olefin is shown in FIG. 1, regardless of catalytic method. For a C₁₀ olefin fraction, R, R′ and R″ can be H or C₁-C₈ with the total of R+R′+R″=8 carbon atoms. For 1-decene, R=H and R′=H and R″=8 and can be a linear or branched alkyl group. For the major isomers in a C₁₀ olefin fraction (e.g., a second feedstock as disclosed herein), 5-methyl-1-nonene: R=H and R′=H and R″=8, but the alkyl group contains branching at the third carbon atom of the C₈ fraction.

A sulfide fraction can be produced by further reaction of a mercaptan isomer with an olefin. The generic structures of such sulfides are shown in FIG. 1 and this fraction can consist of a variety of isomers with several possible combinations of sulfide structures depending on whether the sulfide is primary to primary, primary to secondary, primary to tertiary, secondary to secondary, secondary to tertiary, or tertiary to tertiary. The structures are complicated by the fact that on the two portions of the sulfide the R, R′ and R″ value can be the same or different depending on which mercaptan isomer reacts with which olefin isomer. The total number of carbon atoms of the two portions of the sulfide can also have different values for R+R′+R″, although the most dominant combination will be where both sides each have a total sum of 8 carbon atoms since the C₁₀ fraction predominates in the first feedstock and in the second feedstock.

Reaction Conditions:

Three different reaction methods were used to perform the reaction of H₂S with a feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins: UV-initiation, acid catalysis, and HDS catalysis.

H₂S Removal:

In laboratory experimentation, H₂S was removed using a rotovapor apparatus under conditions of reduced pressure. Under these conditions, H₂S was removed without removing significant quantities of light compounds.

Analytical Methods:

The weight percentage of thiol sulfur (wt. % SH) was determined analytically by titration using iodine in water as the titrant and methylene chloride/isopropanol as the solvent system. Such titration can also be done by using a silver nitrate titration method. Total sulfur was measured by X-ray using a model SLFA-20 Horiba sulfur-in-oil analyzer. GC analysis of the reaction product was performed using an Agilent Technologies 7890A GC. A 2 m×0.25 mm×1.0 μm film DB-1 capillary column was used for the separation. Operating conditions were as follows: 70° C. initial temperature, 2 min hold time, 8° C./min ramp rate to 200° C. and then 15° C./min ramp rate to 300° C. and hold for 10 minutes. A 2 ml/min helium flow rate at constant flow conditions was used. A flame ionization detector was used. The injector temperature was set at 275° C. and the detector temperature at 300° C. As described previously, these data from these compositions were reported in area %, which is substantially similar and analogous to wt. %. Olefin conversion was monitored using Raman spectroscopy with a Kaiser Optical System RXN2 4-channel spectrometer. The peak centered at 1640 cm⁻¹ was the vinyl olefin, while the peak centered at about 1670 cm⁻¹ was the internal olefin.

Example 1

UV-initiation reactions were performed using either a 1.5 L or a 5-liter UV reactor equipped with a 100 watt lamp and ballast. The two reactors are substantially the same configuration, and the only difference in operation is the amount of reactants added to the reactor. To 800 g of mixed C₁₀ olefin (or 2.7 kg, if using the larger reactor), 5 g (or 16.7 g) of triethyl phosphite was added and 0.2 kg (or 0.67 kg) H₂S was charged after sealing the reactor. The reaction mixture was stirred at 500-1,000 RPM. The reaction temperature was controlled with a bath set at 25° C., but the heat of reaction did reach about 40° C. The lamp operated at 1.1-15 amps and 28-103 volts over the course of the reaction, operating at lower amps and higher voltage as it warmed up. The reaction pressure was 220-280 psig (1,516 kPag-1,930 kPag) during the actual reaction time. The reaction was completed in about 30 minutes based on the results of Raman spectroscopy but was allowed to continue for 60 minutes to ensure completion. Table 4 shows the results of four reactions by UV-initiation, wherein the reactions produced Samples #1, #2, #3, and #4.

TABLE 4 Sample # 1 1a 2 2a 3 3a 4 4a Olefin 800 930 930 930 Feedstock wt. H₂S wt. 200 2300 2300 2300 H2S:Olefin 1.0 10.2 10.2 10.2 Molar Ratio Phosphite TEP TEP TEP TBP Phosphite wt. 5.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 wt. % 0.63 0.11 0.11 0.11 Phosphite Reaction Time 70.0 40.0 45.0 45.0 (minutes) % Raman 97.0 98.0 97.3 97.2 Conversion wt. % SH 11.2 15.8 16.6 16.8 16.4 wt. % Total S 15.4 16.3 17.5 17.9 16.9 GC Analysis area % Lights 8.78 0.031 7.07 3.61 6.96 Light 1.10 0.22 1.01 0.015 3.75 3.45 Intermediate C₁₀ SH Region 51.85 56.84 76.04 82.45 82.38 84.14 78.29 84.02 Intermediate 4.96 5.71 7.91 9.04 4.23 5.75 4.26 5.82 Heavies Sulfides 33.31 37.20 7.98 8.50 6.03 10.10 7.05 10.15 TEP = triethyl phosphite; TBP = tributyl phosphite.

Samples #1-4 were prepared using samples of an olefin feedstock composition comparable to that shown in Table 1. Samples #1a, #2a, #3a, and #4a were prepared by distilling the crude reaction product, Samples #1, #2, #3, and #4, respectively. The distillation process proceeded as follows: The first 7 fractions removed from the crude reaction product were considered to be the light fractions. This distillation step was considered to be complete when the kettle temperature increased from 100° C. to 121° C. and the head temperature increased from room temperature to 98.9° C. Cuts 8-13 were considered to be the intermediate fractions and included the C₁₀ mercaptans. These cuts were collected at a kettle temperature of 122° C. to 154° C. and a head temperature of 99° C. to 105° C. Cuts 14 and 15 were collected at kettle and head temperatures of from 122° C. to 154° C. and 103.4° C. to 107.2° C., respectively. These cuts and whatever remained in the kettle were considered the heavies. The head temperature was allowed to increase from room temperature to 107.2° C. before the distillation was stopped. For a typical distillation, only the light fractions were distilled (e.g., removed) and the reaction product was what remained (e.g., including C₁₀ mercaptans and C₂₀ sulfides) in the kettle after the lights were removed.

The relative amount of C₁₀ mercaptan isomers, intermediate mercaptans (e.g., non-C₁₀ mercaptans such as C₁₂ to C₁₆ mercaptans) and sulfide heavies (e.g., C₂₀ sulfides) depended on the ratio of H₂S to olefin during the reaction step. Sample #1 was prepared at a 1:1 ratio of H₂S per olefin to maximize the amount of sulfide content. Conventional wisdom would suggest that the C₁₀ mercaptan fraction would have too strong of an odor to be acceptable for certain applications, and that the sulfide fraction might have a better odor. Surprisingly and unexpectedly, after removing Sample #1 from the reactor and venting off the residual H₂S using a rotovapor apparatus, the odor of this crude reaction product (Sample #1) was good.

FIG. 2 displays a GC trace of reactor crude Sample #1 (after removal of residual H₂S). FIG. 3 displays a GC trace of Sample #2 after removal of lights, designated as Sample 2a. Comparison of the GC traces in FIGS. 2 and 3 indicates successful removal of the majority of the lights from the product stream, which include the cyclohexane, ethylbenzene, 2-ethylhexanol and residual octane. Because the run (to obtain Sample #1) was performed at a low H₂S to olefin ratio, the amount of C₁₀ mercaptan isomers (peaks at 3.8-6.5 minutes) accounted for 56.8 area % of the kettle product, as shown in FIG. 2. The intermediate cut (peaks at 6.5-14 minutes) included mercaptans produced from the C₁₂ to C₁₆ olefins present in the olefin feedstock stream and accounted for 5.7 area % of this particular sample. The heavies cut (peaks at >14 minute retention time) included the sulfides, primarily C₁₀H₂₁—S—C₁₀H₂₁ isomers plus higher sulfides from combinations with other olefins in the mixed feed. It is believed that any C₁₈ mercaptans that may have been produced eluted with the sulfide peaks. The amount of C₁₈ that could be present was estimated at about 0.2 area %. In Sample #1, the sulfide fraction accounted for about 37.2 area % of the product composition. The amount of the intermediate fraction was primarily dependent on the amount of C₁₄ olefin isomers that were present in the olefin feed stream. Analysis of several samples showed that this intermediate fraction ranged from 4-10 area %.

FIG. 4 displays a GC trace of reactor crude Sample #3, after removal of residual H₂S. FIG. 5 displays a GC trace of kettle product Sample #3a, after removal of lights. FIGS. 4 and 5 compare GC results of product produced at a 10:1 H₂S to olefin molar ratio. The observed trends are similar to the trends seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, and the primary difference is in the ratio of C₁₀ mercaptan isomers to the sulfide fraction. This difference is the result of increasing the ratio of H₂S to olefin feedstock used in the reaction. The type and relative amounts of the isomers in the C₁₀ mercaptan fraction are essentially unchanged, and the compositions of the sulfide heavies fractions are similar. What is changed is the relative amount of the C₁₀ mercaptan fraction compared to the sulfide heavies fraction, as in the sample with a lower H₂S:olefins ratio, there is significantly more of the sulfide fraction than the mercaptan fraction. This result is not altogether unexpected, although further experimentation would allow one of skill in the art to optimize the H₂S to olefins ratio to obtain a specific ratio of mercaptans to sulfides.

The main difference between Sample #3a and Sample #1a is the relative amounts of C₁₀ mercaptan isomers, intermediate mercaptans, and sulfides. As expected, when the reaction was performed at a higher molar ratio of H₂S per olefin, the resulting reaction product contained a greater amount of C₁₀ mercaptan isomers (84.1 area % vs. 56.8 area %) and much less sulfide (10.1 area % vs. 37.2 area %). The removal of lights was done using a simple lab distillation unit, wherein the distillation column was 12″ long and 1″ in diameter and was packed with a stainless steel sponge. Distillations were performed in batch mode at 9-10 torr vacuum pressure and an overhead temperature of about 100° C.-103° C. and a kettle temperature of about 125° C.-150° C. The lights were collected overhead while trying to minimize the amount of C₁₀ mercaptan isomers that were lost with this overhead fraction.

The composition of the UV-produced product can be described in broad terms as follows: a feedstock was reacted with H₂S; removal of H₂S after the reaction yielded a crude reaction product. Subsequent removal of the lights fraction to yields a kettle product, which can be used “as is” (e.g., a composition comprising both mercaptans and sulfides) or can be further separated into one or more products or cuts corresponding to a desired compound or combination of compounds (e.g., a C₁₀ mercaptan fraction, an intermediate mercaptan fraction, and/or a heavy/sulfide fraction). In broad terms, the product consists of three general fractions as produced from the kettle product after removal of the unwanted lights fraction. The C₁₀ mercaptan fraction comprised from 50-100 wt. % of the kettle product. The mercaptan functionality of the C₁₀ mercaptan fraction was 80-90% primary mercaptan, 5-18% secondary mercaptan and 0-3% tertiary mercaptan. This was the fraction that eluted in the 3.8-6.5 minute range under the GC conditions used. The intermediate fraction, which eluted in the 6.5-14 minute region, was predominately mercaptan isomers in the C₁₂ to C₁₈ range with a distribution of functionality that can be similar to that for the C₁₀ isomer fraction. The intermediate fraction comprised from 0 to 12 area % of the kettle product. The heavy fraction (>14 minute retention time) consisted essentially of sulfides, primarily of formula C₁₀H₂₁—S—C₁₀H₂₁ isomers, as well as sulfides from C₁₂, C₁₄, C₁₆ or C₁₈ olefins and mercaptans or the asymmetric sulfides produced from the various combinations. These sulfide components comprised from 0-70 area % of the kettle product, depending on the reaction conditions used.

Example 2

Acid Catalysis produced a different distribution of isomer products than those produced by UV-initiation reaction of H₂S and the olefin feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins.

The product produced via the acid catalyzed addition of H₂S to the feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins was prepared in a continuous flow reactor over Filtrol® 24 acid catalyst. The reactor contained 43.22 g of catalyst and the WHSV (weight hourly space velocity) was maintained at 1.0 grams of olefin per gram of catalyst per hour. The H₂S to olefin molar ratio ranged from 10:1 to 1:1. The reaction temperature was between 120° C. to 220° C., and the reactor pressure was 450-460 psig (3,100 kPag-3,200 kPag). Optimum results, based on conversion and maximum C₁₀ mercaptan, were in the 180-200° C. range and an H₂S to olefin molar ratio of 5:1. A decrease in the H₂S to olefin ratio resulted in a decrease in the C₁₀ mercaptan fraction and a corresponding increase in the sulfide fraction. The run data for the acid catalyzed reactions are shown in Table 5.

TABLE 5 Sample # 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Mid Temp 123 145 167 186 202 221 184 185 202 165 182 201 182 182 Actual Btm Temp Set 122 142 162 182 202 222 185 185 205 165 185 205 185 185 Btm Temp 120 141 160 179 198 219 182 182 201 163 181 201 181 182 Actual Average Actual 121 142 163 182 200 221 183 184 202 163 182 202 182 182 Temp GC Analysis area % Lights 4.34 4.24 4.16 3.95 4.24 5.85 3.85 3.88 4.08 3.97 4.04 3.99 4.02 3.94 Olefin Region 58.03 39.66 18.56 11.93 12.70 22.22 9.66 9.79 11.35 12.90 13.45 17.34 19.75 15.86 Octyl SH 0.03 0.57 1.24 0.01 1.67 1.48 1.19 1.19 1.44 1.06 1.12 1.06 0.83 0.92 Other Lights 0.51 0.18 0.13 0.00 0.73 1.26 0.40 0.33 0.54 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.24 0.21 C₁₀ Mercaptan 15.64 36.81 52.84 61.44 56.82 49.41 56.57 57.48 55.80 61.97 58.38 50.79 42.78 48.51 Region Intermediate 7.80 11.67 11.07 6.78 6.24 6.71 6.32 6.27 6.88 6.86 7.05 6.67 6.65 6.57 Heavies Sulfides 13.65 6.88 12.00 15.88 17.59 13.08 22.01 21.06 19.91 13.24 15.95 20.13 25.73 24.00 Raman Olefin 31.0% 56.2% 81.5% 91.0% 92.5% 89.8% 93.2% 92.2% 91.9% 86.4% 85.4% 81.7% 76.2% 78.4% Conversion mol %

The best olefin conversions were in the 88-92 area % range. The C₁₀ mercaptan fraction accounted for 50-60 area % of the crude product weight, while the sulfide fraction ranged from 15-25 area % of the crude product weight.

Acid catalysis produced the Markovnikov product. The vinyl components of the feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins produced secondary mercaptans. The internal olefin components produced secondary mercaptans, while the vinylidene components produced tertiary mercaptans. Thus, the composition of the C₁₀ mercaptan fraction isomers was different when compared to the composition of the product obtained by UV-initiation. For example, the 5-methyl-1-nonene isomer produced 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane by acid catalysis; and 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane was the major product produced by UV-initiation, with a minor amount of the 2-mercapto isomer as a by-product. The 2-butyl-1-hexene isomer produced 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane by acid catalysis; while UV-initiation produced 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane. Comparative GC traces of the product produced by acid catalysis and that produced by UV-initiation are shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7. FIG. 6 shows a comparison of crude product (e.g., only H₂S removed) by UV-initiation and acid catalysis routes, and FIG. 7 compares the C₁₀ mercaptan fraction produced by the UV-initiation and acid catalysis routes.

The comparative GC traces in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 demonstrate that different isomer distributions can be obtained depending on how the reaction of the feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins and H₂S is initiated. One would expect that the tertiary and secondary mercaptans would elute more quickly than primary mercaptans. One would also anticipate that more branching and proximity of the branching to the mercaptan would also cause those isomers to elute more quickly. The peak at 6.01 minutes was clearly n-decyl mercaptan and was expected to be the last of the C₁₀ mercaptans to elute in this fraction.

As with the product produced by UV-initiation, the product obtained by acid catalysis consisted of three general fractions as produced as a kettle product after removal of the unwanted lights fraction. The C₁₀ mercaptan fraction comprised from 50-100 area % of the crude kettle composition. The mercaptan functionality of the C₁₀ fraction was 85-95 area % secondary mercaptan and the remainder tertiary mercaptan. These isomers eluted in the 3.1-6.5 minute range under the utilized GC conditions.

The intermediate fraction consisted of those mercaptan peaks in the 6.5-14 minute range. However, the functionality of the mercaptans was secondary and tertiary C₁₂ to C₁₈ mercaptans. The intermediate fraction comprised 5-15 area % of the total kettle composition.

The sulfide fraction comprised 0-70 area % of the composition of the kettle product, depending on the specific reaction conditions. The fraction consisted of sulfides primarily of formula C₁₀H₂₁—S—C₁₀H₂₁. However, the isomer identity was different than that for the product produced by UV-initiation. The acid produced sulfide product was based on secondary and tertiary mercaptans rather than predominately primary mercaptans as in the UV-initiated produced product.

Example 3

HDS Catalysis produced mercaptans that were primarily similar in distribution to those produced by acid catalysis, which is the Markovnikov distribution. However, there was a tendency to also produce some of the anti-Markovnikov distribution depending on the specific conditions utilized in the reaction step. Thus the product produced by the HDS catalyst appeared to be a blend of product produced primarily via acid catalysis with some of the components of the UV-initiated reaction.

The HDS reaction conditions were as follows: WHSV was varied from 0.75 to 2 grams of olefin per gram of catalyst per hour; the molar ratio of H₂S per olefin was varied from 2:1 to 10:1; the average reaction temperature was 180° C. to 220° C. The catalyst used was cobalt molybdenum on alumina, examples being to Haldor Topsoe TK-554, TK-570, or similar. Olefin conversion, as determined by Raman spectroscopy, was in the 88-97 mol % range. The HDS test runs were performed using the feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins comparable to the composition as outlined in Table 1 are shown in Table 6 and Table 7.

TABLE 6 Sample # 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Ratio 10 10 10 10 10 5 2 5 5 H₂S/Olefin Olefin Rate 31.2 31 31.4 31.1 30.4 31.1 30.8 31.2 31.4 (g/hr) H₂S Rate 74.8 74.2 74.7 75 74.2 36.9 14.4 36.8 37 (g/hr) WHSV 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 Average 204 205 204 223 202 203 203 203 203 Actual Temp GC Analysis area % Lights 6.97 5.33 5.16 4.02 4.97 4.98 4.77 4.59 4.83 Olefin 6.22 7.06 8.93 9.89 8.50 7.35 6.53 7.01 7.28 Region Octyl SH 1.01 1.60 2.07 1.71 1.75 2.07 2.05 2.04 2.16 C₁₀ 51.43 60.92 75.05 59.89 73.44 80.77 79.73 78.53 80.92 Mercaptan Region Intermediate 3.71 4.03 3.86 4.73 4.02 3.78 3.79 4.59 3.97 heavies Sulfides 30.62 21.05 4.93 19.74 7.32 1.06 3.13 3.24 0.83 Raman 96.8% 96.9% 96.1% 94.2% 96.6% 97.5% 97.9% 97.7% 97.2% Olefin Conv. mol % Notes: About 3-4% of olefin region is saturates; lights are primarily cyclohexane, octane, and ethylbenzene

TABLE 7 Sample # 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 Ratio 5 5 2 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 H₂S/Olefin Olefin Rate 40.8 41.7 41.6 62.7 61.7 60.7 81.8 82.4 61.7 62.7 41.8 41.2 (g/hr) H₂S Rate 50.1 49.6 20 74.7 74.5 75 99.5 99 74.4 74.7 49.5 50.1 (g/hr) WHSV 1 1 1 1.50 1.50 1.50 2.00 2.00 1.50 1.50 1.00 1.00 Average 203 203 204 203 203 212 203 218 183 183 181 191 Actual Temp GC Analysis area % Lights 4.02 4.47 4.24 4.07 4.04 3.61 3.51 3.67 3.40 3.68 3.45 3.65 Olefin 7.21 8.65 7.84 11.07 11.73 10.01 13.25 14.82 16.38 18.94 13.61 10.49 Region Octyl SH 1.58 1.91 1.71 1.63 1.67 1.79 1.42 1.50 1.12 1.21 1.19 1.48 C₁₀ 66.44 77.68 77.74 73.33 73.27 63.49 59.35 65.04 58.50 64.23 65.26 71.64 Mercaptan Region Intermediate 5.63 5.21 5.45 5.64 5.33 7.60 7.76 8.04 8.31 7.34 8.27 8.21 Heavies Sulfides 15.12 2.07 3.02 4.26 3.95 13.40 14.58 6.81 12.15 4.45 8.08 4.41 Raman 96.6% 96.6% 97.0% 94.9% 93.9% 94.4% 91.1% 90.4% 87.3% 87.0% 90.9% 94.9% Olefin Conv. mol %

As can be observed from Tables 6 and 7, the trends for sulfide production were less consistent, possibly because the continuous reactor was run at steady state conditions for about 4-5 hours, shut down, and restarted the next day. Further, it appeared that the initial sample each day was initially higher in sulfide content than anticipated and then declined. It appears that under similar conditions of WHSV, ratio and temperature, the HDS catalyzed reaction produces more C₁₀ mercaptan fraction and less sulfide fraction than the acid catalyzed reaction. It is expected that the results varied compared to what would be obtained if the reactor was operated continuously at steady state conditions for several weeks.

A typical GC trace of reactor crude produced from the HDS catalyzed reaction of H₂S and branched C10 monoolefins is shown in FIG. 8. Comparison of the C₁₀ fraction (3.5 to 6 minute retention time) of the HDS reaction product, as shown in FIG. 8, with the same reaction product for both the acid catalyzed and UV-initiated processes as shown in FIG. 6 or FIG. 7, shows that the HDS product was a blend of the acid catalyzed and UV-initiated products.

Example 4

Purification of Crude Decyl Mercaptan.

Purification was performed on some the crude product samples to remove the lights fraction, which consisted of residual H₂S, cyclohexane, ethylbenzene, octane, octene, 2-ethylhexanol and as much of the n-octylmercaptan as possible, i.e., all C⁹⁻. Purification was performed in a conventional laboratory distillation column. Removing the light fraction, especially the n-octylmercaptan, can result in the loss of some C₁₀ mercaptan isomers to the overhead distillate product. It is believed that a commercial-scale operation can minimize the loss of C₁₀ mercaptans by controlling operating parameters including the number of distillation columns used, the number of theoretical trays in the column(s), the rate of reflux and take-off, and whether the distillation is done in continuous or batch mode. These parameters can readily be determined with research, allowing one of reasonable skill in the art to scale up and optimize the distillation process. It is within the scope of this disclosure that operating a continuous mode distillation system using two columns can provide satisfactory separation. For example, operating a the first column at an overhead temperature of 80° C.-85° C. at 9 torr and a second column at about 95° C.-97° C. would provide a satisfactory separation.

The distillation column used in the lab was 1″×12″ packed with stainless steel sponge. As stated earlier, it is believed that the separation was not as good as desired, and significant C₁₀ mercaptan was removed overhead, even with the initial cut. A distillation run at 9 torr and a reflux to take-off ratio of 18:3 required the removal of 12.5 area % of the crude overhead to reach a level of <0.1 area % lights in the kettle product. According to the GC analysis of the crude, only 8.1 area % of the crude product was lights that needed to be removed overhead. The kettle temperature was in the 100° C.-115° C. range at 9 torr. In another distillation batch, 8.8 area % of the crude was taken overhead, while the lights composed only 4.0 area % of the crude. In several other batches, nearly 20 area % of the crude was lost overhead.

For simulation of the distillation, the nearest boiling point impurities are the ethylbenzene, 2-ethylhexanol and n-octylmercaptan. The amount of these impurities that are present will determine how many theoretical trays are be needed, as well as the best pressure and temperature profile to optimize yield and keep the level of the n-octylmercaptan to as low a value as feasible.

Prophetic Example 5

Olefin Feedstock Purification.

A feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins produced in a 1-hexene process can be purified (e.g., distilled), for improved olefin reactivity and resulting mercaptan purity. The lights up to 1-octene can be removed and the C₁₀ olefin isomers taken overhead to high purity (>98%). This high purity C₁₀ monoolefin cut would then be free of the C₁₂ to C₁₈ olefins. The high purity C₁₀ olefin can then be reacted with H₂S to produce the mercaptan products. The reaction conditions would be identical for the high purity C₁₀ olefin stream (e.g., second feedstock) as already indicated for the feedstock comprising branched C₁₀ monoolefins produced in a 1-hexene process used as received (e.g., first feedstock). The major difference will be in the composition of the crude stream and product stream. For the second feedstock, the crude product would consist of any residual H₂S and unreacted C₁₀ olefin, the C₁₀ mercaptan isomers and the C₁₀H₂₁—S—C₁₀H₂₁ fraction. Once the lights are removed, the product will contain the C₁₀ mercaptan isomers and the C₂₀-sulfide, but will not contain any of the intermediate mercaptans and asymmetric sulfide components, which come from reaction of C₁₀ mercaptan with the other non-C₁₀ olefins. The mercaptan functionality for the various routes will be the same as already indicated.

Additional Disclosure

Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above but is only limited by the claims which follow, that scope including all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each and every claim is incorporated into the specification as an embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the claims are a further description and are an addition to the detailed description of the present invention. The disclosures of all patents, patent applications, and publications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference.

A first embodiment, which is a composition comprising mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

A second embodiment, which is a composition comprising sulfides, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

A third embodiment, which is the composition of the second embodiment, wherein the olefin comprises a) at least 76 mol % C₁₀ monoolefins, the C₁₀ monoolefins comprising i) at least 3 mol % 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), ii) at least 8 mol % 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), iii) at least 6 mol % 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), and iv) at least 20 mol % 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I); and b) at least 1 mol % C₁₄ monoolefins.

A fourth embodiment, which is the composition of the third embodiment, wherein the C₁₀ monoolefins comprise from 1 mol % to 16 mol % 4-decene and/or 5-decene.

A fifth embodiment, which is the composition of any one of the third through the fourth embodiments, wherein the C₁₀ monoolefins comprise from 0.5 mol % to 9 mol % 1-decene.

A sixth embodiment, which is the composition of any one of the second through the fifth embodiments, wherein the olefin further comprises from 0.1 mol % to 5 mol % C₁₂ monoolefins, the C₁₂ monoolefins comprising from 54 mol % to 74 mol % 1-dodecene.

A seventh embodiment, which is the composition of any one of the second through the sixth embodiments, wherein the olefin further comprises from 0.1 mol % to 5 mol % C₈ monoolefins, the C₈ monoolefins comprising at least 95 mol % 1-octene.

An eighth embodiment, which is the composition of any one of the first through the seventh embodiments, wherein the olefin further comprises from 0.05 mol % to 2 mol % C₁₆ monoolefins and/or C₁₈ monoolefins.

A ninth embodiment, which is a composition comprising:

(A) at least about 25 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof; and

(B) at least about 5 wt. % C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

A tenth embodiment, which is a composition comprising:

(A) from at least about 50 wt. % to at least about 90 wt. % mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof and

(B) from at least about 10 wt. % to at least about 30 wt. % sulfides, wherein at least 50 wt. % of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), and combinations thereof.

An eleventh embodiment, which is a composition comprising:

(A) at least about 25 wt. % C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof.

(B) at least about 5 wt. % C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof and

one or more of the following components (C)-(I):

(C) less than about 5 wt. % C₈ mercaptans;

(D) less than about 15 wt. % C₁₂ mercaptans;

(E) less than about 15 wt. % C₁₄ mercaptans;

(F) less than about 5 wt. % C₁₆ mercaptans and/or C₁₈ mercaptans;

(G) less than about 1 wt. % C₁₆₋₃₆ sulfides represented by the structure R³—S—R⁴, wherein R³ and R⁴ are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin selected from the group consisting of C₈ monoolefins, C₁₀ monoolefins, C₁₂ monoolefins, C₁₄ monoolefins, C₁₆ monoolefins, and C₁₈ monoolefins, wherein R³ and R⁴ are not both branched C₁₀ monoolefins;

(H) less than about 10 wt. % unreacted C₈₋₁₈ monoolefins; and

(I) less than about 10 wt. % non-olefin impurities selected from the group consisting of C₈₋₁₄ alkanes, cyclohexane, methylcyclopentane, methylcyclohexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, mesitylene, hexamethylbenzene, C₄₋₁₂ alcohols, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and 2-ethylhexyl-2-ethylhexanoate.

A twelfth embodiment, which is a process comprising reacting hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition, wherein the branched C₁₀ monoolefins comprise 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

A thirteenth embodiment, which is the process of the twelfth embodiment further comprising recovering a first reaction product from the crude composition, wherein the first reaction product comprises at least about 25 wt. % branched C₁₀ mercaptans.

A fourteenth embodiment, which is the process of any one of the twelfth through the thirteenth embodiments further comprising recovering a second reaction product from the crude composition, wherein the second reaction product comprises at least about 5 wt. % branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a branched C₁₀ alkyl group derived from the branched C₁₀ monoolefin, and wherein the branched C₁₀ alkyl group is selected from the group consisting of

wherein * designates the attachment point to the S atom of the branched C₂₀ sulfide.

A fifteenth embodiment, which is the process of any one of the twelfth through the fourteenth embodiments further comprising recovering a reaction product from the crude composition, wherein the reaction product comprises (i) at least about 50 wt. % mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the mercaptans are branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 5-methyl-5-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure H), and combinations thereof; and (ii) at least about 10 wt. % sulfides, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene (represented by Structure I), 3-propyl-1-heptene (represented by Structure J), 4-ethyl-1-octene (represented by Structure K), 2-butyl-1-hexene (represented by Structure L), or combinations thereof.

A sixteenth embodiment, which is the process of any one of the twelfth through the fifteenth embodiments, wherein the initiating agent comprises ultraviolet radiation.

A seventeenth embodiment, which is the process of the sixteenth embodiment, wherein the initiating agent further comprises a phosphite promoter, a photoinitiator, or both.

An eighteenth embodiment, which is the process of any one of the twelfth through the seventeenth embodiments, wherein the initiating agent comprises an acid catalyst.

A nineteenth embodiment, which is the process of any one of the twelfth through the eighteenth embodiments, wherein the initiating agent comprises a hydrodesulfurization catalyst.

A twentieth embodiment, which is the process of the sixteenth embodiment, wherein the crude composition comprises C₁₀ mercaptans comprising from about 70 wt. % to about 95 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans, from about 10 wt. % to about 20 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans, and from about 0 wt. % to about 5 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.

A twenty-first embodiment, which is the process of the eighteenth embodiment, wherein the crude composition comprises C₁₀ mercaptans comprising from about 0 wt. % to about 5 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans, from about 80 wt. % to about 95 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans, and from about 5 wt. % to about 20 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.

A twenty-second embodiment, which is the process of the nineteenth embodiment, wherein the crude composition comprises C₁₀ mercaptans comprising from about 5 wt. % to about 30 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans, from about 60 wt. % to about 75 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans, and from about 5 wt. % to about 15 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.

A twenty-third embodiment, which is the process of any one of the twelfth through the twenty-second embodiments further comprising, prior to the reacting, separating the feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins from an effluent stream obtained from a 1-hexene production process.

A twenty-fourth embodiment, which is the product made by the process of any one of the twelfth through the twenty-third embodiments.

While embodiments of the disclosure have been shown and described, modifications thereof can be made without departing from the spirit and teachings of the invention. The embodiments and examples described herein are exemplary only, and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations and modifications of the invention disclosed herein are possible and are within the scope of the invention.

At least one embodiment is disclosed and variations, combinations, and/or modifications of the embodiment(s) and/or features of the embodiment(s) made by a person having ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the disclosure. Alternative embodiments that result from combining, integrating, and/or omitting features of the embodiment(s) are also within the scope of the disclosure. Where numerical ranges or limitations are expressly stated, such express ranges or limitations should be understood to include iterative ranges or limitations of like magnitude falling within the expressly stated ranges or limitations (e.g., from about 1 to about 10 includes, 2, 3, 4, etc.; greater than 0.10 includes 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, etc.). For example, whenever a numerical range with a lower limit, R_(l), and an upper limit, R_(u), is disclosed, any number falling within the range is specifically disclosed. In particular, the following numbers within the range are specifically disclosed: R=R_(l)+k*(R_(u)−R_(l)), wherein k is a variable ranging from 1 percent to 100 percent with a 1 percent increment, i.e., k is 1 percent, 2 percent, 3 percent, 4 percent, 5 percent, . . . 50 percent, 51 percent, 52 percent . . . 95 percent, 96 percent, 97 percent, 98 percent, 99 percent, or 100 percent. Moreover, any numerical range defined by two R numbers as defined in the above is also specifically disclosed. Use of the term “optionally” with respect to any element of a claim means that the element is required, or alternatively, the element is not required, both alternatives being within the scope of the claim. Use of broader terms such as comprises, includes, and having should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as consisting of, consisting essentially of, and comprised substantially of.

Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above but is only limited by the claims which follow, that scope including all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each and every claim is incorporated into the specification as an embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the claims are a further description and are an addition to the detailed description of the present invention. The disclosures of all patents, patent applications, and publications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A composition comprising mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the mercaptans are at least two branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), and 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G).


2. A process comprising: reacting hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and a feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins in the presence of an initiating agent to produce a crude composition, wherein the branched C₁₀ monoolefins comprise 5-methyl-1-nonene, 3-propyl-1-heptene, 4-ethyl-1-octene, 2-butyl-1-hexene, or combinations thereof; and recovering a reaction product from the crude composition, wherein the reaction product comprises mercaptans, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the mercaptans are at least two branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane, 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane, 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane, 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane, 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane, and 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane.
 3. The process of claim 2, wherein the reaction product comprises at least about 25 wt. % branched C₁₀ mercaptans.
 4. The process of claim 2, wherein the reaction product further comprises at least about 5 wt. % branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a branched C₁₀ alkyl group derived from the branched C₁₀ monoolefin, and wherein the branched C₁₀ alkyl group is selected from the group consisting of

wherein * designates the attachment point to the S atom of the branched C₂₀ sulfide.
 5. The process of claim 2, wherein the reaction product comprises (i) at least about 50 wt. % mercaptans; and (ii) at least about 10 wt. % sulfides, wherein at least about 50 wt. % of the sulfides are branched C₂₀ sulfides represented by the structure R¹—S—R², wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a functional group derived from an olefin, wherein the olefin comprises 5-methyl-1-nonene, 3-propyl-1-heptene, 4-ethyl-1-octene, 2-butyl-1-hexene, or combinations thereof.
 6. The process of claim 2, wherein the initiating agent comprises ultraviolet radiation.
 7. The process of claim 6, wherein the initiating agent further comprises a phosphite promoter, a photoinitiator, or both.
 8. The process of claim 2, wherein the initiating agent comprises an acid catalyst.
 9. The process of claim 2, wherein the initiating agent comprises a hydrodesulfurization catalyst.
 10. The process of claim 6, wherein the crude composition comprises C₁₀ mercaptans comprising from about 70 wt. % to about 95 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans, from about 10 wt. % to about 20 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans, and from about 0 wt. % to about 5 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.
 11. The process of claim 8, wherein the crude composition comprises C₁₀ mercaptans comprising from about 0 wt. % to about 5 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans, from about 80 wt. % to about 95 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans, and from about 5 wt. % to about 20 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.
 12. The process of claim 9, wherein the crude composition comprises C₁₀ mercaptans comprising from about 5 wt. % to about 30 wt. % C₁₀ primary mercaptans, from about 60 wt. % to about 75 wt. % C₁₀ secondary mercaptans, and from about 5 wt. % to about 15 wt. % C₁₀ tertiary mercaptans.
 13. The process of claim 2 further comprising, prior to the reacting, separating the feedstock comprising one or more branched C₁₀ monoolefins from an effluent stream obtained from a 1-hexene production process.
 14. The reaction product made by the process of claim
 2. 15. The composition of claim 1, comprising at least about 50 wt. % mercaptans.
 16. The composition of claim 1, comprising at least about 70 wt. % mercaptans.
 17. The composition of claim 1, comprising at least 99 wt. % mercaptans.
 18. The composition of claim 1, wherein at least about 75 wt. % of the mercaptans are the branched C₁₀ mercaptans.
 19. The composition of claim 1, wherein at least about 85 wt. % of the mercaptans are the branched C₁₀ mercaptans.
 20. A mercaptan composition comprising at least two branched C₁₀ mercaptans selected from the group consisting of 5-methyl-1-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure A), 3-propyl-1-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure B), 4-ethyl-1-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure C), 2-butyl-1-mercapto-hexane (represented by Structure D), 5-methyl-2-mercapto-nonane (represented by Structure E), 3-propyl-2-mercapto-heptane (represented by Structure F), and 4-ethyl-2-mercapto-octane (represented by Structure G), 